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Community Development Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

The Business Development Manager is responsible for creating new relationships from the ground up ... Community-rooted - Builds relationships in the market and maintains a strong local presence

The Business Development Manager is responsible for creating new relationships from the ground up ... Community-rooted - Builds relationships in the market and maintains a strong local presence

The Business Development Manager is responsible for creating new relationships from the ground up ... Community-rooted - Builds relationships in the market and maintains a strong local presence

ChildServe's Supported Community Living (SCL) service has a job for you! As aSkill DevelopmentAssistant,you will provide 1:1 personal care, skill development, supervision, and training for children ...

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

Your Opportunity As a Civil Engineer in Training in our Community Development Group, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of innovative and diverse land development projects. This ...

Showing results 41-60

Community Development information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$34.6K

$74.3K

$115.6K

How much do community development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development in Des Moines, IA is $74,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,100.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a community development?

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 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a 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 do community development professionals do?

Community development professionals work to improve local communities by planning and implementing projects that address social, economic, and environmental needs. They collaborate with residents, government agencies, and organizations to promote sustainable growth, often utilizing skills in project management, public outreach, and data analysis. Their work may involve grant writing, community organizing, and evaluating program effectiveness.

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 project management, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge of local policies, often requiring relevant degrees and strong communication skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in Des Moines, IA?

The most popular types of Community Development jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What job categories do people searching Community Development jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Development jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Community Development jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Community Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Community Development job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,338 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Skill Development Professional

ChildServe

Johnston, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


ChildServe rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ChildServe's Supported Community Living (SCL) service has a job for you! As a Skill Development Assistant, you will provide 1:1 personal care, skill development, supervision, and training for children with special health care needs in a child’s home and integrated community settings. 

Schedule Flexible scheduling with most shifts occurring after 4pm Monday through Friday, or on weekends.

How You’ll Make an Impact

  • Have fun and work 1:1 with children with special health care needs in the child’s home and/or community.
  • Teach daily living skills that will help make children more independent.
  • Ongoing training and supervision provided.
  • Great resume builder for those interested in social work, education, therapy, nursing, and psychology.

What You’ll Need:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Experience working with or caring for children with special health care needs preferred.
  • Basic computer skills and have reliable access to the internet to complete required documentation and online trainings.
  • Good oral and written communication skills and can accurately document all observations, significant events, and services provided.
  • Must be willing to provide transportation as a ChildServe authorized driver, if required. This includes passing a motor vehicle record check and car safety check and able to provide a valid driver’s license and insurance.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in reading, writing and speaking the English language.
  • Ability to lift up-to 35 lbs. be mobile within the assigned work area, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.

Not sure if you hit 100% of the position expectations? Let's talk! Reach out to our Talent Acquisition team by emailing careers@childserve.org. 

Make a Difference Every Day at ChildServe

  • ChildServe partners with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life. 
  • ChildServe is a leading pediatric healthcare provider with Iowa’s only children's specialty hospital, offering a variety of services and programs to meet each child’s unique needs.
  • ChildServe’s four key specialty areas include: complex medical care, pediatric rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health, and community-based services. With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families can address their child’s needs in one location.
  • Established in 1928, ChildServe proudly provides more than 30 pediatric specialty services to nearly 6,000 children in Iowa each year.

ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request assistance with the application process, please email careers@childserve.org. ChildServe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


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