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Community Development Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

A Community Support Specialist helps individuals adapt to living in their communities by creating ... Participate in staff development activities, including training and education programs, to enhance ...

A Community Support Specialist helps individuals adapt to living in their communities by creating ... Participate in staff development activities, including training and education programs, to enhance ...

Planner

Springfield, MO · On-site

$42K - $46K/yr

Experience in transportation planning is preferred, however, experience in rural/small town planning, regional planning, economic and/or community development, or a related field will be considered.

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Community Development information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$31.7K

$68K

$105.7K

How much do community development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development in Springfield, MO is $67,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $81,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Community Development jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What job categories do people searching Community Development jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Community Development jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Community Development jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Community Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Community Development job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,955 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

State Community Development Specialist

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Springfield, MO

$61K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

This position is located in the State of Missouri, USDA-Rural Development (RD).
This vacancy announcement is open to current Rural Development Employees only.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including time-in-grade restrictions, specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
Time in Grade: Current federal employees applying for a promotion opportunity must meet the time in grade requirement of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled.
For GS-09 Grade Level: Applicants must possess one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 grade level; or its non-Federal equivalent that demonstrates: Experience working on rural and community economic development issues. Experience working with rural development stakeholders to build community capacity. Experience in delivering outreach and community economic development engagement to various interests' groups such as state, community or economic development members, employees, and county organizations. OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree, or 2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree, or LL.B. or J.D.; in order to be qualifying, education must be in a related field. OR A combination of the following: more than 1 full year of progressively higher level graduate education, if related, and experience, may be used to meet total qualification requirements. Only graduate level education in excess of the first 18 semester hours (27 quarter hours) may be combined to be considered for qualifying education.
For GS-11 Grade Level: Applicants must possess one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 grade level; or its non-Federal equivalent that demonstrates: Experience working on rural and community economic development issues as an individual or team member. Works with various sources of alternative or supplemental funding, such as federal, state, or local loan and/or grant providers, state legislatures, non-profit organizations, and private lenders to maximize rural community economic development opportunities. Experience in writing, editing, and reviewing government/professional correspondence, talking points, or questions and answers. Experience in delivering outreach and engaging with state, community or economic development leaders, planners, employees, and county organizations. OR a combination of education as described and specialized experience. OR Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree OR 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.M., if related OR a combination of education as described and specialized experience.
NOTE: To be considered for this position, you must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements for the GS-0301 series set forth in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards by the closing date of the announcement. A copy is available at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position does not have an education requirement.Employment Type: OTHER