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Community Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Pontiac

HOUSING DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Housing Development Specialist - Pontiac Home Repair & Land Management Department: Housing Vitality ... Department of Housing and Urban Development) , including CDBG (Community Development Block Grant ...

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How much do community development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development specialist in the United States is $73,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Community Development Specialist?

A community development specialist typically works in city government housing and community construction departments to determine the use of grant funds and plan programs to help home buyers finance new and affordable homes or provide shelter for the homeless. Job duties include researching, developing reports, managing and generating funds, and doing public outreach. At least five years of experience in community development is required, and experience in social work and knowledge of state and local laws is a plus. Educational qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in social sciences or a related field. Strong writing and analytical skills are essential.

What does a Community Development Specialist do?

A Community Development Specialist works to improve and strengthen communities by identifying needs, developing programs, and coordinating resources. They often collaborate with local governments, nonprofit organizations, and residents to address issues such as housing, economic development, health, and education. Their responsibilities may include conducting research, applying for grants, managing projects, and facilitating community engagement. Ultimately, their goal is to foster sustainable growth and enhance the quality of life within communities.

What are some common challenges Community Development Specialists face when engaging with diverse communities?

Community Development Specialists often work with groups that have varying cultural backgrounds, needs, and priorities, which can present challenges in building trust and fostering effective communication. Navigating language barriers, differing expectations, and occasional resistance to change requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills. Successful specialists use active listening, empathy, and collaborative approaches to ensure all voices are heard and to create inclusive, sustainable development strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Community Development Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Specialist, you need expertise in project management, community engagement, and knowledge of urban planning or social work, usually supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, grant writing software, and GIS systems is often required. Outstanding interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving skills help build trust and facilitate productive partnerships. These abilities are crucial for designing effective programs and achieving positive, sustainable impact within diverse communities.
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What are popular job titles related to Community Development Specialist jobs? For Community Development Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Community Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Development Authority of the North Country

Watertown, NY • On-site

$63K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Project Development Specialist supports a variety of community and economic development initiatives under the supervision of the Senior Project Development Specialist. This role is responsible for assisting with loan underwriting for Authority programs and regional economic development organizations, providing financial oversight for regional revolving loan programs, and assisting in the administration of state and federal grants. The Project Development Specialist also supports the implementation of housing programs, including the North Country HOME Consortium and several municipal housing initiatives. The position requires collaboration with local municipal staff, economic development organizations, housing providers, businesses, and homeowners to advance regional development goals.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with municipal partners, economic development organizations, housing providers, businesses, and homeowners to advance regional initiatives.
  • Work with internal teams to ensure effective project planning, coordination and implementation.
  • Identify, develop, and implement community and economic development projects and programs that support regional goals.
  • Assist in the administration and oversight of housing and community development revolving loan programs, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and financial integrity.
  • Support the management and the coordination of contracted programs and services, including the North Country HOME Consortium, North Country Alliance, and North Country Economic Development Fund.
  • Assist with loan underwriting by reviewing and analyzing financial statements, performing credit assessments, and preparing related documentation.
  • Support project management activities, including the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting for housing programs and other Authority initiatives.
  • Provide technical assistance, guidance and capacity building support to strategic partners, community stakeholders, and local municipalities.
  • Assist with grant writing, proposal development, and the administration of state and federal grants.
  • Perform related duties to support the overall operations, goals and objective of the Authority.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities):
  • Proficient with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and familiarity with project management or financial software.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community partners, and private sector representatives.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, creativity, and flexibility in decision-making and problem solving.
  • Ability to learn quickly, adapt to evolving priorities, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively while exercising independent judgement.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Community Development, or a related field.
Professional Certification/Licenses: None
Experience:
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in financial underwriting, business financial statement preparation and analysis, and project management.
  • Experience supporting programs in small cities, rural communities, or other underserved areas is a plus.
  • One (1) year of experience in community and economic development, affordable housing is preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of skills, education, training, and experience sufficient to perform the responsibilities of the position may be acceptable.

Pre-employment Physical Exam and Drug Test Required: Yes
Annual Physical Exam Required: No
Minimum Driver's License: New York State Class "D"
Travel Requirements: <10%
Typical Work Schedule: Regularly works Monday through Friday during normal business hours and requires willingness to work a flexible schedule when needed.
Environmental: Typical office environment where employee is protected from weather conditions or contaminants.
Benefits: NYS Employees' Retirement System, NYS Deferred Compensation, 12-paid holidays, 3-weeks' vacation, 10-sick days, 2-personal holidays, an employer funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for medical and prescriptions benefits, dental, vision and short-term disability insurance, professional development and tuition reimbursement.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
The Development Authority of the North Country is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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