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Community Economic Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 Chicago, IL

Community Economic Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$106.1K

$159.7K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in Chicago, IL is $106,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $128,300.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Community Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Community Economic Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Community Economic Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $106,126 per year, or $51 per hour.

Volunteer Development Associate

The Aparecio Foundation, NFP

Chicago, IL

Part-time

Re-posted 24 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 high-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.

This is a unpaid Volunteer / Intern position.

Job Description

This is a unpaid Volunteer / Intern position.

The Fundraising manager's primary goals are to develop and implement a fundraising strategy to secure revenue for the Aparecio Foundation. This will include the initiation of writing proposals to obtain grants, direct mail campaigns, securing endowments, cultivating major donors and hosting fundraising events.
Description of Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Develop a fundraising strategy while setting goals and priorities.
  • Researching and identifying several donors and key stakeholders.
  • Plan projects to ensure organizational effectiveness and successful work results.
  • Maintaining donor databases.
  • Work with fundraising committee to oversee event planning and campaign.
  • Recruit and manage a large number of volunteers.
  • Plan and execute event logistics.
  • Attend professional meetings, training workshops, and read publications on the field to enhance professional competence.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, government officials, and media representatives and use these relationships to develop new business opportunities.
  • Identify main client groups and audiences, determine the best way to communicate publicity information to them, and develop and implement a communication plan for fundraising.
  • Assign, supervise and review the activities of fund raising staff.
  • Develop and maintain the company's corporate image and identity, which includes the use of logos and signage.
  • Respond to requests for information about employers' activities or status.
  • Manage fund raising budget.
  • Direct activities of external agencies, establishments and departments that develop and implement fund raising strategies and information programs.
  • Evaluate advertising and promotion programs for compatibility with fund raising efforts.
Qualifications
  • Bachelors Degree.  
  • Two to Four years related non-profit/fundraising experience
  • Demonstrated sales experience strongly preferred
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (donor contact database knowledge a plus)
Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply