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Community Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Breakthrough

Community Health Worker

Chicago, IL

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Must possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to poverty, and community development. * Some Knowledge of Chicago's West Side Communities ...

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Community Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$78.5K

$122.1K

How much do community development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development in Chicago, IL is $78,469.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $94,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you do with community development?

Community development offers roles such as community development coordinator, urban planner, social services manager, nonprofit program director, and housing specialist. These jobs typically involve planning, outreach, policy development, and collaboration with local organizations, often requiring skills in project management, communication, and knowledge of local regulations.

What are the roles of a community development worker?

A community development worker facilitates positive change within communities by engaging residents, assessing needs, and implementing programs to improve social, economic, or environmental conditions. They often coordinate with local organizations, advocate for community interests, and utilize skills in communication, planning, and problem-solving to empower residents and foster sustainable development.

What is the role of a community developer?

A community developer is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing initiatives that promote community engagement and development. They often work with local organizations, coordinate events, and utilize communication skills to foster a sense of community and improve local resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Community Development position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Community Development, you need a background in urban planning, social work, or a related field, along with strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, and community needs assessments is often expected, and relevant certifications in community planning or public administration can be beneficial. Excellent communication, cultural competency, and conflict resolution abilities are vital for building trust and fostering collaboration among diverse groups. These skills are crucial for successfully designing, implementing, and sustaining community-driven initiatives that create tangible positive impact.

What is a Community Development job?

A Community Development job focuses on improving the well-being of communities by promoting economic, social, and environmental initiatives. Professionals in this field work with local organizations, government agencies, and residents to address issues such as affordable housing, education, public health, and economic opportunities. Their role often involves planning programs, securing funding, and fostering partnerships to drive sustainable growth and positive change.

What is the work of community development?

Community development professionals work to improve the social, economic, and environmental well-being of communities through planning, organizing, and implementing projects. They often collaborate with local residents, government agencies, and organizations to address issues such as housing, education, and public health, using skills in project management and community engagement.

What are the primary challenges faced in a Community Development role?

Professionals in Community Development often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs and interests of diverse community stakeholders, addressing limited resources or funding, and overcoming resistance to change within communities. Navigating complex regulations and coordinating with various government agencies or nonprofit partners can also add layers of complexity. However, these challenges are opportunities to develop creative solutions, advocate for underrepresented populations, and make meaningful improvements in quality of life. The role typically requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain adaptable and resilient in dynamic environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL? For Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Community Development jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Community Development job openings:
Community Development jobs near you
(Hybrid) Community Impact, Fall Intern

(Hybrid) Community Impact, Fall Intern

The Chicago Community Trust

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description


Title: Community Impact, Fall Intern
Department: Community Impact
Reports To: Manager, Homeownership & Home Equity and Manager, Policy Change
Direct Reports: N/A
Classification: Internship
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Grade: N/A
Compensation: $20/hour
Schedule: 21 hours/week (Hybrid: 2 days in office, 1 day remote)
Duration: 16 weeks, Fall 2026 (August 25 - December 10)
About the Internship Program
Our Fall Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in philanthropy, community engagement, operations, and organizational strategy. Interns work alongside staff across multiple departments.
The Policy Change Team supports and engages in policy and advocacy to realize the systemic reforms necessary to achieve the Trust's strategic goals. The teams work to support the landscape of organizations and coalitions working to reform inequitable laws and policies that created and perpetuated the racial and ethnic wealth gap.
The Homeownership and Small Business Team focuses on supporting households that have faced systemic barriers to building wealth in two areas where the Trust believes it can have the greatest impact: (1) increasing homeownership and home equity and (2) boosting income and financial assets.
What You'll Do
The intern has an active role in supporting both the Homeownership and Policy Change teams through their work in developing learning memos, presenting findings, and participating in convenings to further develop the intern's presentation and writing skills while advancing the learning agenda of the Trust.
Expected Assignments:
  • Review existing impact frameworks for funding programs to determine alignment with priorities; make recommendations based on past grantmaking.

  • Participate in meetings with potential grant applicants, documenting important information, and providing feedback on alignment with strategic priorities.

  • Review existing impact frameworks for funding programs to determine alignment with Homeownership and Policy Change priorities; make recommendations based on past grantmaking.

  • Track, document, and assess opportunities to increase access to capital aligned with Homeownership and Small Business priorities.

  • Participate in meetings with potential grant applicants, document important information, and provide feedback on alignment with strategic priorities.

  • Research and provide background memos on key policy issues and policy reform proposals to inform potential Trust engagement.

  • Complete other duties as assigned.

Work Environment
This internship follows a hybrid schedule:
  • 2 days in office (Tuesday, Thursday)

  • 1 day remote

Timeline
This posting will close at 4:59PM CST on Friday July 24, 2026.
  • Application Cycle (7/15 - 7/24)

  • Applicant Screens (7/27 - 7/31)

  • In Person Interviews (8/3 - 8/7)

  • Intern Selection and Notifications (8/10 - 8/14)

  • Internship Onboarding (8/25 - 8/27)

Experience and Skills
Position Qualifications
We welcome applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including (but not limited to): Rising Senior - Graduate level Public Policy; Political Science; Public Administration; Urban Planning; Sustainable Urban Development; Community Development; Social Science, Economics; Business; Social Work; Law; or other related fields.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Project coordination
  • Experience working with multiple teams/leaders at the same time

Thank you for your interest in joining our mission. We look forward to hearing from you!

Apply