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Rural Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Policy Specialist

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$76K - $102K/yr

Policy Specialist Hiring Range: $76,793.60 to $102,391.47 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The ... Rural Development; OR equivalent combination of education and experience. 2. Two (2) years ...

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Rural Development Specialist information

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$81.6K

$141K

How much do rural development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for rural development specialist in the United States is $81,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does rural development pay?

Rural Development Specialists typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on government agency, nonprofit organization, or consulting firm, and the role often requires knowledge of community planning, grants, and policy analysis.

What is a Rural Development Specialist job?

A Rural Development Specialist works to improve the economic, social, and environmental conditions of rural communities. They assess community needs, develop programs, and collaborate with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses to promote sustainable growth. Their responsibilities may include project management, policy advocacy, and securing funding for development initiatives. This role often requires knowledge of agriculture, infrastructure, and economic development strategies.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Rural Development Specialist typically requires relevant experience and knowledge of rural communities, but high-paying roles in this field are uncommon without a degree. Generally, jobs that pay $10,000 a month without a degree include skilled trades like commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, which often rely on experience, certifications, or licensing rather than formal education. These roles may involve self-employment or commission-based income, and success depends on skills, network, and market conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Rural Development Specialist position, and why are they important?

A Rural Development Specialist requires expertise in community development, project management, and socioeconomic analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree such as rural development, agriculture, or social sciences. Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS), data analysis software, and development grant management platforms is often necessary, as is knowledge of local government procedures. Excellent communication, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving skills help build stakeholder trust and adapt solutions to diverse rural contexts. These competencies are essential for designing effective development programs and ensuring sustainable positive change in rural communities.

What are some typical projects that Rural Development Specialists work on, and how do they collaborate with local communities?

Rural Development Specialists often work on projects such as infrastructure improvements, agricultural extension programs, economic diversification initiatives, and capacity-building workshops. They typically collaborate closely with local community leaders, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to assess needs, design solutions, and implement programs tailored to the area's unique challenges. Open communication and active stakeholder engagement are key aspects of the role, as specialists facilitate meetings, gather feedback, and ensure that initiatives are both sustainable and community-driven. This collaborative approach not only strengthens project outcomes but also builds lasting relationships that support ongoing rural development.

What is the role of a rural development specialist?

A rural development specialist plans and implements programs to improve economic opportunities, infrastructure, and quality of life in rural areas. They analyze community needs, collaborate with local stakeholders, and often use data analysis and project management skills to promote sustainable growth.

How to make 80000 a year without a degree?

A Rural Development Specialist can potentially earn $80,000 annually through experience, specialized skills, and certifications in areas like project management, grant writing, or community planning. Many roles in rural development offer competitive salaries without requiring a college degree, especially with proven expertise and a strong track record in the field.
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Rural Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rural Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,632 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

Development Authority of the North Country

Watertown, NY • On-site

$63K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Project Development Specialist supports a variety of community and economic development initiatives under the supervision of the Senior Project Development Specialist. This role is responsible for assisting with loan underwriting for Authority programs and regional economic development organizations, providing financial oversight for regional revolving loan programs, and assisting in the administration of state and federal grants. The Project Development Specialist also supports the implementation of housing programs, including the North Country HOME Consortium and several municipal housing initiatives. The position requires collaboration with local municipal staff, economic development organizations, housing providers, businesses, and homeowners to advance regional development goals.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with municipal partners, economic development organizations, housing providers, businesses, and homeowners to advance regional initiatives.
  • Work with internal teams to ensure effective project planning, coordination and implementation.
  • Identify, develop, and implement community and economic development projects and programs that support regional goals.
  • Assist in the administration and oversight of housing and community development revolving loan programs, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and financial integrity.
  • Support the management and the coordination of contracted programs and services, including the North Country HOME Consortium, North Country Alliance, and North Country Economic Development Fund.
  • Assist with loan underwriting by reviewing and analyzing financial statements, performing credit assessments, and preparing related documentation.
  • Support project management activities, including the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting for housing programs and other Authority initiatives.
  • Provide technical assistance, guidance and capacity building support to strategic partners, community stakeholders, and local municipalities.
  • Assist with grant writing, proposal development, and the administration of state and federal grants.
  • Perform related duties to support the overall operations, goals and objective of the Authority.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities):
  • Proficient with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and familiarity with project management or financial software.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community partners, and private sector representatives.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, creativity, and flexibility in decision-making and problem solving.
  • Ability to learn quickly, adapt to evolving priorities, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively while exercising independent judgement.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Community Development, or a related field.
Professional Certification/Licenses: None
Experience:
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in financial underwriting, business financial statement preparation and analysis, and project management.
  • Experience supporting programs in small cities, rural communities, or other underserved areas is a plus.
  • One (1) year of experience in community and economic development, affordable housing is preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of skills, education, training, and experience sufficient to perform the responsibilities of the position may be acceptable.

Pre-employment Physical Exam and Drug Test Required: Yes
Annual Physical Exam Required: No
Minimum Driver's License: New York State Class "D"
Travel Requirements: <10%
Typical Work Schedule: Regularly works Monday through Friday during normal business hours and requires willingness to work a flexible schedule when needed.
Environmental: Typical office environment where employee is protected from weather conditions or contaminants.
Benefits: NYS Employees' Retirement System, NYS Deferred Compensation, 12-paid holidays, 3-weeks' vacation, 10-sick days, 2-personal holidays, an employer funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for medical and prescriptions benefits, dental, vision and short-term disability insurance, professional development and tuition reimbursement.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
The Development Authority of the North Country is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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