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Rural Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

FullShift Staffing, LLC

RN 4 week Contract

Audubon, IA · On-site

Join us as we journey through the landscapes of rural healthcare, making a meaningful impact one ... development opportunities · Supportive team environment · Opportunity to broaden your clinical ...

inReach Health

Physical Therapist Assistant

Mount Ayr, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $35/hr

InReach Rehab is a family-oriented company committed to strengthening rural rehabilitation teams ... Deliver high-quality therapy services under the supervision of a PT. * Assist in the development ...

InReach Rehab

Physical Therapist Assistant

Mount Ayr, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

InReach Rehab is a family-oriented company committed to strengthening rural rehabilitation teams ... Deliver high-quality therapy services under the supervision of a PT. * Assist in the development ...

InReach Rehab

Occupational Therapist

Hamburg, IA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

InReach Rehab is a family-oriented company committed to strengthening rural rehabilitation teams ... Engage in professional development and contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture.

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All JobsRural Development JobsRural Development Jobs in Iowa

Rural Development information

See Iowa salary details

$38K

$79K

$150.8K

How much do rural development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for rural development in Iowa is $79,008.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $89,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is rural development?

Rural development refers to initiatives and strategies aimed at improving the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas, often outside of cities and large towns. This field focuses on enhancing infrastructure, access to basic services such as healthcare and education, agricultural productivity, and employment opportunities. Rural development professionals work with local communities, governments, and organizations to address challenges like poverty, limited resources, and migration to urban centers. Their goal is to create sustainable and inclusive growth that benefits rural populations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in rural development projects?

Professionals in rural development often encounter challenges such as limited infrastructure, resource constraints, and difficulties in gaining community trust. Adapting solutions to local needs and effectively collaborating with local stakeholders are crucial for success. Additionally, balancing project goals with sustainable practices and navigating regulatory or funding hurdles are common aspects of the role. Strong communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and making a positive impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in rural development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Rural Development, you need a background in community planning, project management, and a relevant degree such as agriculture, economics, or public administration. Familiarity with data analysis tools, geographic information systems (GIS), and knowledge of grant application processes or certifications in project management are often required. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving abilities help build trust and effectively address the unique needs of rural communities. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing and implementing sustainable projects that improve the quality of life in rural areas.

What is the difference between Rural Development vs Community Development Officer?

AspectRural DevelopmentCommunity Development Officer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public administration, social sciences, or related fieldsBachelor's degree in social work, community planning, or related fields
Work EnvironmentRural areas, government agencies, non-profitsUrban and rural communities, non-profits, government agencies
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, non-profits focused on rural areasLocal government, non-profits, community organizations

While both roles focus on community improvement, Rural Development primarily targets rural areas with a focus on economic growth and infrastructure, whereas Community Development Officers work across diverse settings to enhance community well-being and social services. Understanding these differences helps job seekers align their skills and interests with the appropriate career path.

What are popular job titles related to Rural Development jobs in Iowa?

For Rural Development jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rural Development jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Rural Development jobs in Iowa are:

Rural Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rural Development job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $79,008 per year, or $38 per hour.

Chief Executive Officer

Council of Foundations

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque (CFGD) is seeking a visionary, collaborative, and community-centered leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally respected community foundation that has evolved into a Rural Development Hub, driving systems-level change across Greater Dubuque and the seven-county region it serves.

This is not a traditional foundation CEO role. While CFGD manages nearly $190 million in assets and makes strategic grants, philanthropy is just one small tool in the service of a larger mission. We have grown to be a Rural Development Hub: strengthening: communities, building systems, and supporting local leaders to create sustainable, equitable prosperity across the region. convening partners, building capacity, and addressing complex regional challenges through collaboration and trust-based leadership.

About the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque

Founded in 2003, CFGD envisions a vibrant, inclusive region where everyone can thrive. The Foundation mobilizes generosity, builds partnerships, and supports community-led solutions addressing housing, education, economic mobility, health, climate resilience, and civic life. Through affiliate foundations and regional collaboration, CFGD serves as a connector, convener, and catalyst for lasting change across 85 communities

Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership & Board Partnership

Partner with the Board of Directors to advance CFGD’s strategic vision and long-term sustainability

Engage board members as thought partners through meaningful dialogue, learning, and shared leadership

Organizational & People Leadership

Lead and mentor a mission-driven team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, learning, and equity

Develop leaders and systems that support organizational excellence and future growth

Community Convening & Regional Systems Leadership

Serve as the region’s backbone leader by convening cross-sector partners and supporting community-led solutions

Maintain a visible and trusted presence across the seven-county region

Donor Engagement & Resource Development

Act as chief relationship builder with donors, fundholders, and partners

Cultivate major gifts, grow endowments, and steward generosity as a long-term partnership

National Partnerships & Sector Leadership

Represent CFGD in national philanthropic networks and collaborations

Stay attuned to emerging trends to ensure relevance, innovation, and impact

Qualifications:

Proven executive leadership experience, preferably within the nonprofit, philanthropic, or community development sectors.

Strong track record of engaging with boards, leading teams, managing donor relationships, and building partnerships.

Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Experience navigating complex stakeholder environments and managing strategic initiatives.

Willingness and ability to travel nationally and regionally up to 6–8 times per year.

Must have a minimum of a Bachelors degree, Masters degree is preferred

Ideal candidate will have 10+ years of senior leadership experience and a proven track record of building teams and developing innovative community partnerships

Preferred Attributes:

The ideal CEO is an entrepreneurial, relational, and systems-oriented leader who understands that transformation, not transaction, is the goal. They bring:

Proven executive leadership experience in philanthropy, nonprofit, community development, or related fields

A strong track record of board partnership, donor engagement, and organizational leadership

Deep commitment to community-driven solutions, equity, and collaboration

Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and convening skills

The ability to listen deeply, lead with humility, and mobilize diverse stakeholders toward shared outcomes

Compensation & Benefits:

CFGD offers a competitive salary, negotiated based on experience and history of success, along with a generous benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and more.

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