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Community Economic Development Jobs in Pennsylvania

We Are CASA's Community and Economic Development Department responds to the needs of working class Latinos and other immigrants and their families, utilizing service provision models that promote ...

We Are CASA's Community and Economic Development Department responds to the needs of working class Latinos and other immigrants and their families, utilizing service provision models that promote ...

We offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to contribute to community development and economic empowerment. Requirements: Skills and Qualifications ...

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Community Economic Development information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$31.1K

$103.3K

$155.4K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Pennsylvania is $103,268.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,700.00 and $124,800.00 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 Pennsylvania? For Community Economic Development jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Community Economic Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,268 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Special Assistant, Community and Economic Development Projects

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

$125K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Salary

$125,966.00 Annually

Location

Dauphin County, PA

Job Type

Non-Civil Service Permanent Full-time

Job Number

N-2026-54169

Department

Department of Community & Economic Development

Division

CE Ex Off

Opening Date

07/22/2026

Closing Date

7/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Code

U0862

Position Number

50480747

Union

Non Union

Bargaining Unit

A3

Pay Group

XH77

Bureau / Division Code

00247007

Bureau / Division

CE Ex Off

Worksite Address

400 North Street, 4th Floor

City

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Zip Code

17120

Contact Name

DC, HRActions

Contact Email

RA-DCHRACTIONS@pa.gov

THE POSITION

Start an exciting career with the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) as a Special Assistant for Community and Economic Development Projects. In this role, you will help guide major efforts that support community growth and economic progress. You will work on high visibility projects that improve coordination, communication, and decision making. DCED encourages motivated individuals who are ready to contribute to statewide success to apply today!


DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position supports major community and economic development initiatives by reviewing information, coordinating activities, and ensuring strong communication across various teams. As a Special Assistant, Community and Economic Development Projects, you will perform the following duties:

  • Strategic Support: Advise the Secretary by reviewing information, analyzing issues, and preparing recommendations
  • Project Leadership: Lead or assist major initiatives that involve interagency coordination and complex planning
  • Office Coordination: Serve as a connection between the Secretary's Office and DCED program areas to maintain smooth communication
  • Progress Monitoring: Track project activity and prepare updates, summaries, and support materials
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Represent the Secretary in meetings and maintain communication with partners and community groups
  • Material Preparation: Develop written reports, presentations, memos, and related documents


Work Schedule and Additional Information:

  • Full-time employment
  • Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
  • Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 2 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
  • Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
  • You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

  • Six years of professional experience in Economic development, community development or staff work, including three years in a large public agency; and training gained through graduation from a four-year college or university, supplemented by graduate study in public administration at the master's degree level; or
  • Any equivalent combination of experience and training.


Additional Requirements:

  • You must have three or more years of experience in public speaking
  • You must have three or more years of experience in public engagement
  • You must have three or more years of experience planning and managing public events
  • You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

  • Graduate degree
  • Government experience

How to Apply:

  • Your application must include a cover letter and resume.
  • You must attach a cover letter and resume to your application for review by the hiring manager. However, the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
  • If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
  • Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
  • Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
  • All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans:

  • Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

  • 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.


The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787