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Community Economic Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Community Economic Development information

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$31K

$103K

$155K

How much do community economic development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for community economic development in the United States is $103,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,500.00 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.
More about Community Economic Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Community Economic Development jobs? Cities with the most Community Economic Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Community Economic Development jobs? The most popular types of Community Economic Development jobs are:
What states have the most Community Economic Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Community Economic Development jobs include:
Infographic showing various Community Economic Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,020 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

State Community Development Specialist

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Chillicothe, MO

$61K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

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