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Entry Level Community Development Jobs in Wheaton, IL

PLANNER

Itasca, IL ยท On-site

$73.02K - $118K/yr

The Village of Itasca is seeking a Planner and welcomes applicants ranging from entry-level to ... Reporting to the Community Development Director, the Planner is a mid-level professional planning ...

PLANNER

Itasca, IL

$73.02K - $118K/yr

... from entry-level to highly experienced. Starting salary negotiable between $73,024 and $118,000 ... Reporting to the Community Development Director, the Planner is a mid-level professional planning ...

PLANNER

Itasca, IL ยท On-site

$73.02K - $118K/yr

The Village of Itasca is seeking a Planner and welcomes applicants ranging from entry-level to ... Reporting to the Community Development Director, the Planner is a mid-level professional planning ...

Electrician

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

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 ...

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Entry Level Community Development information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$34.3K

$73.6K

$114.5K

How much do entry level community development jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level community development in Wheaton, IL is $73,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $88,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Community Development professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Community Development professional, you typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, social work, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge of community engagement principles. Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS), project management software, and basic data analysis tools is often beneficial. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and organizational skills set top candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for building trust, managing projects, and effectively supporting the needs of diverse communities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level professionals in community development, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level professionals in community development often encounter challenges such as building trust within diverse communities, managing multiple stakeholders with different priorities, and adapting quickly to evolving project needs. To address these, it's important to prioritize active listening, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and participate in regular team meetings to stay aligned with project goals. Developing strong communication and organizational skills can also help navigate the dynamic nature of community projects and foster effective collaboration.

What is an entry level community development job?

An entry level community development job involves assisting with projects and initiatives aimed at improving local communities. These roles typically include tasks such as conducting outreach, organizing community events, gathering feedback from residents, and supporting senior staff with planning and implementation. Entry level positions are ideal for individuals looking to gain experience in social work, urban planning, or public administration, and often require strong communication and organizational skills. The work helps build stronger, more resilient communities by addressing local needs and fostering engagement.

What is a career in community development?

A career in community development involves working to improve local communities through projects that address social, economic, and environmental issues. Entry-level roles often include community outreach, program coordination, and data collection, requiring strong communication skills and knowledge of local resources.
What are the most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in Wheaton, IL? The most popular types of Community Development jobs in Wheaton, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Community Development jobs in Wheaton, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Community Development jobs in Wheaton, IL are:
What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Entry Level Community Development jobs? Cities near Wheaton, IL with the most Entry Level Community Development job openings:
PLANNER

$73.02K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Village of Itasca is seeking a Planner and welcomes applicants ranging from entry-level to highly experienced. Starting salary negotiable between $73,024 and $118,000.
Itasca is a warm and friendly community that embraces families and businesses alike. Incorporated in 1890, Itasca is located in the northeast corner of DuPage County just west of O'Hare International Airport. Home to large industrial and office parks with over 20,000 employees, Itasca is known for its strong business climate, multimodal transportation, and interstate highway access.
The Planner position will perform a variety of routine and complex administrative, technical, and professional work in the current and long-range planning programs of the Village related to the development, implementation, and enforcement of land use and related community plans and policies. Reporting to the Community Development Director, the Planner is a mid-level professional planning position, responsible for oversight of departmental operational assignments associated with planning, land use, zoning, and economic development. This position is the staff liaison to the Plan and Historic Commissions which meet monthly in the evenings.
The starting salary for this position is $73,024 - $118,000 DOQ plus an excellent benefits package including IMRF pension participation.
Requirements
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a closely related field
  • At least two years of professional planning or related experience
  • A valid state drivers' license or the ability to obtain one

Preferred:
  • Experience in municipal government
  • Master's degree in planning, landscape architecture, architecture, or a related field
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification.

Applications will be accepted until June 5, 2026, with the first review of applications to begin on May 22, 2026.
Village of Itasca is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.