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Community Relation Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Community Relations Director

Elgin, IL · On-site

$78K - $85K/yr

The Community Relations Director will lead the sales and marketing department at the community. Salary: $78k - $85k plus commission * Schedule, organize, and conduct tours with prospective resident ...

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Community Relation information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$23

$31

How much do community relation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for community relation in Illinois is $23.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is community relation?

Community relations refers to the strategies and activities organizations use to build and maintain positive relationships with the communities in which they operate. Professionals in this field work to enhance the organization's image, address community concerns, and foster collaboration with local groups and stakeholders. Their work often involves organizing events, managing outreach programs, and serving as a liaison between the organization and the public. Effective community relations can help build trust, improve reputation, and support long-term business goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a community relations specialist?

To thrive as a Community Relations Specialist, you need strong communication, public relations, and organizational skills, often supported by a degree in communications, public relations, or a related field. Familiarity with social media platforms, content management systems, and event planning tools is typically required. Relationship-building, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving are crucial soft skills for effectively engaging diverse community groups. These skills are important to build trust, foster positive relationships, and enhance an organization's reputation within the community.

How does a community relations professional typically collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders?

Community Relations professionals serve as a vital bridge between their organization and the local community. They frequently work alongside internal departments such as marketing, public relations, and leadership to align outreach initiatives with organizational goals. Externally, they build and maintain partnerships with local groups, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations to drive engagement and foster positive relationships. Successful collaboration requires strong communication skills, a proactive approach to networking, and the ability to balance multiple stakeholder interests. This teamwork helps ensure that community programs are impactful and in sync with both organizational and community needs.

What is the difference between Community Relation vs Public Relations Specialist?

AspectCommunity RelationPublic Relations Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Communications, Public Relations, or related fieldBachelor's in Communications, Public Relations, or related field
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, local government, community groupsCorporations, PR agencies, media outlets
Employer & Industry UsageCommunity-focused organizations, local governmentBusinesses, agencies, media
Common Search & ComparisonCommunity Relation vs Public Relations Specialist

Community Relations and Public Relations Specialists both require similar educational backgrounds and often work in communication roles. However, Community Relations focuses on building relationships within local communities and nonprofit sectors, while Public Relations Specialists manage a company's public image and media relations. Understanding these differences helps organizations find the right expertise for their communication needs.

What degree do you need for community relation?

A community relations specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as public relations, communications, marketing, or social sciences. Relevant skills include strong communication, interpersonal abilities, and experience with community engagement or public outreach. Some roles may prefer or require additional certifications or experience in specific areas.

What is a job in community relation?

A community relations job involves building and maintaining positive relationships between an organization and the community it serves. Responsibilities often include organizing events, communicating with community members, and promoting the organization’s initiatives, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.

What is the role of community relations?

The role of community relations involves building and maintaining positive relationships between an organization and the community it serves. Community relations professionals organize outreach programs, communicate organizational goals, and address community concerns to foster goodwill and support. Strong communication skills and cultural awareness are essential in this role.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Community Relation jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Community Relation job openings:

Infographic showing various Community Relation job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,501 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Community Relations

Bloomington, IL • On-site

Villas of Holly Brook
Health Care and Social Assistance • 501 - 1,000 employees

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Villas of Holly Brook rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

 Villas of Holly Brook and Reflections Memory Care is a leading operator of assisted living, and memory care communities in more than 25 locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Florida. We are the residence of choice for more than 2,000 seniors, and the workplace of choice for more than 1,000 employees. We create vibrant communities where older adults can thrive and participate, know that their contributions are valued, and enjoy access to opportunities and support that help them continue making a difference in our world.  


Villas of Holly Brook is seeking a sales / marketing professional with a proven track record of generating and closing qualified leads. As the Community Relations professional, you will partner with executive directors to improve occupancy at our communities. This position can be highly rewarding from both a compensation and community service standpoint. We’ve recently increased payout opportunities based on growing occupancy, which reward all commissionable sales associates in a community or selling network. Come be part of a team committed to improving the lives of seniors.
 
 
Responsibilities  

  • Maintain and/or improve community occupancy level and revenue production in accordance with business and marketing plans  
  • Manage sales process by understanding prospective residents’ needs and educating them about the community’s services and programs 
  • Coordinate and complete all activities needed for sales, including visiting prospects homes, conducting initial assessments or sales presentations, and ensuring all required forms are completed prior to move-in 
  • Increase community awareness through participation in outside events, professional groups and local community involvement 
  • Review sales trends, marketing plans, and coach Communities to successful outcomes. 


Qualifications:  

  • Sales experience with a proven track record of generating and closing a high percentage of qualified leads 
  • Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office and database systems 
  • Ability to effectively listen and communicate both verbally and in writing 

 Wage Range: $55,000-$60,000

Benefits

Offered to full time staff 
 •Medical, dental, vision insurance 
 •Paid time off for staff regularly scheduled at least 24 hours per week. Accrue immediately! 
 •Life Insurance paid by company 
 •Short term Disability 
 •Long term Disability 
 •Accident Insurance 
 •401k with match starting immediately upon hire  

Benefits for all staff 

•DailyPay © (Advanced pay product). Work today, Get paid tomorrow! 

•Discount meals while working -$3/meal


Villas of Holly Brook, Reflections Memory Care and Villas of South Park are an equal opportunity employer. 




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