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Rural Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brookside Properties

Regional Manager

Chattanooga, TN

$71K - $95K/yr

Regional Property Manager - USDA Rural Development Housing (Tennessee) USDA Rural Development experience REQUIRED | Multifamily | Tax Credit Brookside is hiring a Regional Property Manager with ...

Brookside Properties

Regional Manager

Nashville, TN

$75K - $101K/yr

Regional Property Manager - USDA Rural Development Housing (Tennessee) USDA Rural Development experience REQUIRED | Multifamily | Tax Credit Brookside is hiring a Regional Property Manager with ...

Brookside Properties

Regional Manager

Clarksville, TN

$67K - $91K/yr

Regional Property Manager - USDA Rural Development Housing (Tennessee) USDA Rural Development experience REQUIRED | Multifamily | Tax Credit Brookside is hiring a Regional Property Manager with ...

Brookside Properties, Inc

Regional Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

Regional Property Manager - USDA Rural Development Housing (Tennessee) USDA Rural Development experience REQUIRED | Multifamily | Tax Credit Brookside is hiring a Regional Property Manager with ...

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Rural Development information

See salary details

$40.5K

$84.1K

$160.5K

How much do rural development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for rural development in the United States is $84,116.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
More about Rural Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Rural Development jobs? Cities with the most Rural Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rural Development jobs? The most popular types of Rural Development jobs are:
What states have the most Rural Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Rural Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rural Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rural Development jobs are:
Rural Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rural Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,116 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

State Community Development Specialist

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Troy, MO • On-site

$61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

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

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