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Community Development Worker Jobs in Chicago, IL

Breakthrough

Community Health Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

... to poverty, and community development. * Some Knowledge of Chicago's West Side Communities ... Experience working with underserved, transient populations SUPERVISION * Direction received from ...

Alternatives, Inc.

Community Wellness Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$53K/yr

Our school and community-based therapy, prevention and leadership development programs support ... In addition to working directly with young people, we train, coach and advocate for youth-serving ...

Alternatives, Inc

Community Wellness Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$53K/yr

Our school and community-based therapy, prevention and leadership development programs support ... In addition to working directly with young people, we train, coach and advocate for youth-serving ...

Alternatives, Inc

Community Wellness Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$53K/yr

Our school and community-based therapy, prevention and leadership development programs support ... In addition to working directly with young people, we train, coach and advocate for youth-serving ...

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All JobsCommunity Development Worker JobsCommunity Development Worker Jobs in Chicago, IL

Community Development Worker information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do community development worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for community development worker in Chicago, IL is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a community development worker?

Community development workers are professionals who support and empower communities to identify their needs, develop solutions, and improve their quality of life. They work with individuals, groups, and organizations to address social, economic, and environmental issues. Their roles often include facilitating meetings, providing information, helping to access resources, and encouraging community participation in decision-making. Community development workers may be employed by local governments, non-profits, or charities, and their work is vital in promoting social inclusion and community well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by community development workers in engaging diverse community groups?

Community Development Workers often encounter challenges such as building trust with residents from varied backgrounds, overcoming language or cultural barriers, and ensuring inclusive participation in community initiatives. Successfully encouraging engagement requires patience, strong communication skills, and cultural sensitivity. Collaborating with local leaders, adapting outreach strategies, and being responsive to community feedback are vital for overcoming these obstacles and fostering meaningful involvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a community development worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Worker, you typically need a background in social work, community studies, or a related field, along with experience in community engagement and project management. Familiarity with data collection tools, case management systems, and grant application processes is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to inspire and empower others are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for building trust, fostering collaboration, and driving positive, sustainable change within communities.

What is the difference between Community Development Worker vs Social Worker?

AspectCommunity Development WorkerSocial Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or bachelor's degree in community development, social sciences, or related fieldsUsually requires a bachelor's or master's degree in social work (BSW or MSW) and licensure
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, non-profits, local government agenciesHospitals, clinics, social service agencies, schools
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, government agencies focused on community welfareHealthcare, child welfare, mental health services

While both roles aim to improve individual and community well-being, Community Development Workers focus on community projects and empowerment, whereas Social Workers provide direct support and services to individuals and families. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and setting.

How to get into community development work?

Community development workers typically need a relevant degree such as social work, community development, or public administration. Gaining experience through volunteering, internships, or entry-level positions helps build skills in communication, project management, and community engagement. Certifications in areas like conflict resolution or grant writing can also enhance job prospects.

What jobs can you do with community development worker?

A community development worker can pursue roles such as community organizer, outreach coordinator, program coordinator, social services case manager, or policy advocate. These positions often involve working with local organizations, government agencies, or non-profits to improve community well-being and require skills in communication, project management, and community engagement.
Community Development Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Worker job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,756 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Community Development Lending Director

Chicago, IL • On-site

Fifth Third
See more jobs at Fifth Thirdexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Originate and develop Community Development Loans, primarily LIHTC affordable housing developments, across the Bank's footprint.

  • Manage and monitor the portfolio of affordable housing loans to ensure quality and profitability.

  • Develop and maintain client relationships, identify new business opportunities, and cross-sell bank products and services.

Job description

Make banking a Fifth Third better
We connect great people to great opportunities. Are you ready to take the next step? Discover a career in banking at Fifth Third Bank.

GENERAL FUNCTION:

The Community Development Lending Director I (CDL Director) is responsible for originating Community Development Loans (CDLs) primarily LIHTC affordable housing developments, that qualify for CRA benefit across the Bank's footprint. The primary client focus of the CDL Director I will be Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Developers/ Sponsors of Affordable Housing. Responsible for profitable business development and monitor the quality of an existing portfolio of affordable housing loans within an assigned geographic area.

Thisindividual contributor position is focused on the execution and delivery on the Bank's CDL Strategy. Individuals in this position must be skilled, experienced Community Development relationship managers with experience originating Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) affordable housing loans, capable of independent activity including origination, structure, and execution of large complex Community Development transactions.

Responsible for achieving assigned CD Lending goals plus developing revenue growth through generation of loans, deposits, and cross-selling bank services to existing customer base. Services include financing and depository products related to real estate investments, income property, development, construction, etc. In addition to the high level of subject matter expertise with LIHTC, the CDL Director I must also be proficient with other Community Development structures including New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC); Historic Tax Credits; Tax Increment Financing (TIF); and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and maintain important client relationships

  • Produces and maintains profitable Community Development loan volume, with primary responsibility for cross-sell, return generation, and First Line of Defense.

  • Qualifies prospects and takes lead in the development of new business opportunities from those prospects and existing customer base.

  • Ensure that relationships are managed to profit potential for the Bank, develop profitable new business, cross-sell applicable 5/3 products and services an existing portfolio, and manage the sales process in a specific geographic area for commercial real estate loans.

  • Assists in the development of new Community Development Directors, Associates, and Analysts.

  • Develop intimate knowledge of all customers and businesses within the Community Development space.

  • Develops good working relationships with peers and senior leaders in Credit Solutions; Credit Risk; Commercial Real Estate; Community Development & Social Responsibility and the rest of the organization.

  • Underwrite credit requests and approve real estate loans within established lending limits or make recommendations on loans that require higher approval authority.

  • Monitor, on an ongoing basis, information concerning customer performance, abilities, and industry to determine that loan is an acceptable risk.

  • Ensure proper reporting, documentation, and review to determine that a loan is an acceptable risk.

  • Identifies acceptable credit opportunities that have the potential of leading to significant non-credit sales.

  • Responsible for the delivery of value-added financial solutions (ranging from traditional to customized products) to existing and prospective clients that will help them to enhance their business.

  • Keep abreast of trends, developments and current regulations in the industry and in local markets.

  • Coordinate all client-facing activities related to their clients, including credit support and other product areas (i.e. Treasury Management) partners

  • Attend community and/or industry-specific forums, conferences and/or meetings in order to broaden relationship network and continually deepen knowledge of trends, practices, products and competitors.

  • Participate in various community affairs and projects to promote the image of the Bank.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

No direct reports, however incumbent may provide oversight and direction for Associates, Analysts and Commercial Leadership Program participants.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Undergraduate degree required, graduate degree preferred.

  • 5+ years of experience in Banking, Finance or related field.

  • 2+ years of Community Development Real Estate Lending experience and sales management preferred. This position requires a strong understanding of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit and the New Market Tax Credit programs.

  • Formalized commercial credit training or equivalent credit experience required. Ability to structure complex financial situations that utilize tax credits and other incentives in the capital stack.

  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communications, negotiation and analytical skills.

  • Demonstrated sales and negotiation experience.

  • Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks.

  • Strong credit training required and underwriting skills preferred.

  • Proven track record of success in working as a part of a team to originate, and close complex financial transactions.

  • Ability to interact effectively with senior executives inside and outside our organization.

  • Strong relationship building skills.

Community Development Lending DirectorTotal Base Pay Range 96,500.00 - 207,500.00 USD Annual

At Fifth Third, we understand the importance of recognizing our employees for the role they play in improving the lives of our customers, communities and each other. Our Total Rewards include comprehensive benefits and differentiated compensation offerings to give each employee the opportunity to be their best every day.

The base salary for this position is reflective of the range of salary levels for all roles within this pay grade across the U.S. Individual salaries within this range will vary based on factors such as role, relevant skillset, relevant experience, education and geographic location. In addition to the base salary, this role is eligible to participate in an incentive compensation plan, with any such payment based upon company, line of business and/or individual performance.

Our extensive benefits programs are designed to support the individual needs of our employees and their families, encompassing physical, financial, emotional and social well-being.You can learn more about those programs on our 53.com Careers page at: https://www.53.com/content/fifth-third/en/careers/benefits.html or by consulting with your talent acquisition partner.

LOCATION -- Chicago, Illinois 60606

Attention search firms and staffing agencies: do not submit unsolicited resumes for this posting. Fifth Third does not accept resumes from any agency that does not have an active agreement with Fifth Third. Any unsolicited resumes - no matter how they are submitted - will be considered the property of Fifth Third and Fifth Third will not be responsible for any associated fee.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is proud to have an engaged and inclusive culture and to promote and ensure equal employment opportunity in all employment decisions regardless of race, color, gender, national origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

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