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Community Economic Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Surf Internet

Government Affairs Specialist

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Build partnerships with economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, and community stakeholders. * Represent Surf Internet at community events, public forums, trade associations, and ...

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All JobsCommunity Economic Development JobsCommunity Economic Development Jobs in Illinois

Community Economic Development information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$99.8K

$150.2K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Illinois is $99,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $120,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is community economic development?

Community economic development (CED) is a process where local communities take action to stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life for their residents. This involves initiatives such as supporting small businesses, creating jobs, developing affordable housing, and fostering local leadership. CED often emphasizes collaboration among residents, local organizations, and government to address economic challenges and create sustainable, inclusive growth. The goal is to empower communities to drive their own economic futures while addressing social, environmental, and economic needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in community economic development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Community Economic Development, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and stakeholder engagement, often supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with data analysis software, GIS tools, and grant writing platforms is typically required. Strong communication, cultural competency, and leadership skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These qualifications enable effective collaboration and sustainable solutions that drive economic growth and community well-being.

What is the difference between Community Economic Development vs Economic Development Specialist?

AspectCommunity Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in urban planning, public policy, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, often with additional certifications in economic analysis or project management
Work EnvironmentFocuses on local communities, nonprofits, government agenciesWorks in government, consulting firms, or economic development agencies
Employer & IndustryLocal governments, community organizations, non-profitsMunicipalities, economic development agencies, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in community-focused projectsExploring careers in economic growth strategies

Community Economic Development and Economic Development Specialist roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in focus. Community Economic Development emphasizes local community projects and nonprofit collaborations, while Economic Development Specialists often work on broader economic growth strategies for municipalities or agencies. Both roles aim to promote economic prosperity but target different scopes within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in community economic development roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Community Economic Development often encounter challenges such as limited funding, balancing diverse stakeholder interests, and navigating complex regulatory environments. Success in this role requires strong communication and negotiation skills to build consensus among community members, local businesses, and government agencies. Proactively seeking out grant opportunities, fostering collaborative partnerships, and staying informed about economic trends can help address these challenges and drive sustainable development projects.
What are popular job titles related to Community Economic Development jobs in Illinois? For Community Economic Development jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Community Economic Development job openings:
Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,829 per year, or $48 per hour.

Organizational Development Specialist Intern/Volunteer

Luxe Media, LLC

Chicago, IL

Internship

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Aparecio Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was designed as an economic development strategy to lift women out of poverty and as a community development approach to build the leadership capacity of low-income women. The Aparecio Foundation provides academic support and scholarship programs for hihh-potential, low-income women in public high schools through an eight-year multiple-mentor program.

The culture of Aparecio Foundation is characterized by an informal and laid back environment, where employees work independently and in teams to develop and carry out effective organizational structure and work processes. Employees are driven through self-motivation and passion for the not-for-profit sector. Through the development of quality services to the enhancement of the organization's goals and objectives employees are able to use their strengths and skills the best ways they can! Therefore Aparecio Foundation employees are given freedom to be creative and energetic in performing their tasks and duties as professionals in their respective field of expertise.

Job Description

Develop organizational structure, process and procedure documentation.

Find and establish best practices on organizational development and programs to adapt and implement in the workplace.

Plan projects to ensure organizational effectiveness and successful work results.

Initiate proper implementation OD programs.

Develop evaluative systems to ensure effectiveness of OD programs.

Promote innovation and collaboration between the organizations various departments.

Determine intern staff requirements and develop internship project plans.

Managing and supervising the OD Interns. Including communication of expectation, feedback and recognition of accomplishments.

Organize and lead the meetings to follow up on projects updates and set up future expectations with interns.

Provide communication between OD Interns and OD Director (Co-Director). Provide weekly updates for Weekly Newsletter.

Attend professional meetings, training workshops, and read publications on the field to enhance professional competence.

Qualifications
  • Bachelors Degree. Masters preferred.
  • Have some work experience in HR, OD, I/O Psychology related field.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply