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Sustainable Community Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Sustainable Community Development information

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$36.6K

$78.5K

$122.1K

How much do sustainable community development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for sustainable community development in Chicago, IL is $78,469.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $94,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sustainable community development?

A Sustainable Community Development job focuses on creating and implementing programs that promote environmental, economic, and social well-being within communities. Professionals in this field work with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses to develop policies, initiatives, and infrastructure that support long-term sustainability. Responsibilities may include urban planning, renewable energy projects, affordable housing development, and community engagement. The goal is to foster resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible communities while improving the quality of life for residents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sustainable community development?

To thrive in Sustainable Community Development, you need expertise in urban planning, environmental science, project management, and community engagement, often supported by a relevant degree such as urban planning, environmental studies, or public administration. Familiarity with GIS software, sustainability assessment tools, and certifications like LEED or AICP is advantageous. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and facilitation skills help build trust and foster effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. These abilities are critical for designing and implementing projects that create lasting, positive impacts in communities while balancing social, environmental, and economic priorities.

What are some typical challenges faced in sustainable community development?

Professionals in Sustainable Community Development often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs and interests of diverse community groups, securing funding for projects, and navigating complex regulatory requirements. Additionally, it can be demanding to ensure equitable participation and address unforeseen environmental or social impacts as projects progress. Success in this role requires adaptability, creative problem-solving, and the ability to work collaboratively with local governments, nonprofits, and residents. Despite these challenges, the work is highly rewarding, as you contribute directly to building healthier, more resilient communities.

What are popular job titles related to Sustainable Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Sustainable Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sustainable Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Sustainable Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Sustainable Community Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sustainable Community Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,469 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Sustainable Community Schools Coordinator

Chicago Public Schools

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago

Job description

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is a district on the rise, serving over 325,000 students in 500+ schools and employing over 45,000 people, most of them teachers. CPS has set ambitious goals to ensure that every student, in every school and every neighborhood, has access to a world-class learning experience that prepares each for success in college, career, and civic life. Aligned with our transformed philosophy, we are steadfastly focused on ensuring that the District provides resources equitably to support every student, every school, and every community. Six core values guide the work we do every day for our students - student-centered, whole child, equity, academic excellence, community partnership, and continuous learning. Each role in the district supports our vision that every student deserves a rigorous, joyful, and equitable learning experience.
The Sustainable Community Schools (SCS) Coordinator is responsible for implementing the Sustainable Community Schools Initiative in a cohort of schools. The SCS Initiative is a joint partnership between CPS and the Chicago Teachers Union. The SCS Coordinator reports to the Sustainable Community School Manager in the Office of College and Career Success who will ensure the Coordinator's work is aligned to and supports a shared leadership model with the Chicago Teachers Union.
Job Summary:
Reporting to the Sustainable Community Schools Manager, the Sustainable Community Schools (SCS) Coordinator will support a shared leadership model with the Chicago Teachers Union. The (SCS) Coordinator will implement the Sustainable Community Schools Initiative in a cohort of schools. This is a full-time, exempt position that will be paid for time worked on a salary basis.
The Sustainable Community Schools (SCS) Coordinator will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:
Support SCS implementation and activities
  • Implement and guide schools through understanding the SCS pillars and principles, track all activities offered, and monitor funding allocations for a portfolio of participating schools.
  • Provide operational support for school-based SCS staff and work with key stakeholders, including principals and school leaders, parents, students, vendors, and community-based organizations.

Develop strong, collaborative relationships with program participants and partners
  • Develop and maintain strong, empathetic relationships with school leaders and staff (including counselors and teachers at CPS schools), partners, and students and their families. Work closely with CSI team and CPS departments to solve problems on behalf of schools, and broker relationships between schools and community partners; mediate partner issues as needed.
  • Meet with Lead Partner Agency regularly to provide hands-on coaching to the school Resource Coordinators.
  • Ensure the development of a school-based leadership team.
  • Regularly meet with school principals to ensure program delivery meets the needs of the school communities.

Provide training and technical assistance to program participants and partners
  • Provide program support and guidance to participating schools by planning and implementing professional development activities, trainings, and other resources to address needs that may arise.
  • Provide ongoing training to school-based and external partner staff in the use required.
  • program tools, such as systems (ex: Cityspan, Foundations tool, etc.) and required documents for compliance and implementation.

Support SCS service delivery and program analysis
  • Review, approve, and oversee service delivery plans and budgets, monitor service plan compliance and data entry for all CSI activities on a school-by-school basis; collect essential program data and generate reports as needed.
  • Review and monitor data in Cityspan for accuracy and completion
  • Respond to all internal and external audit and monitoring requests; support schools in compiling annual implementation binders.

Participate in program quality improvement initiatives
  • Become trained and certified in the Program Quality Checklist tool and use this tool to observe programs, provide feedback, and make improvements based on outcomes.
  • Work with other departments in OCCS as well as the Office of Equity to ensure alignment with re-engagement strategies, SEL supports, school-based interventions, and other best practices.
  • Other duties as assigned.

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, the Sustainable Community Schools Coordinator must possess the following qualifications:
Education Required:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required
  • Master's degree preferred

Experience Required:
  • Minimum of five (5) years of relevant work experience coordinating programs and analyzing program data
  • Experience in urban education or related fields is preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to conduct multiple projects concurrently, both independently and in a team environment
  • Strong service and support orientation towards schools and school communities
  • Strong analytical and project management skills Exceptional verbal and written communication and negotiation skills necessary to effectively communicate with a variety of audiences
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision outside of a formalized, central office setting
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and maintain paperwork and documentation
  • Familiarity with non-profit organizations and school-community partnerships
  • Strong ability to organize and prioritize information quickly and strategically

Conditions of Employment
As a condition of employment with the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), employees are required to:
  • Establish/Maintain Chicago Residency - Employees are required to live within the geographic boundaries of the City of Chicago within six months of their CPS hire date and maintain residency throughout their employment with the district. The Chicago residency requirement does not apply to temporary/part-time positions; however, all CPS employees must be residents of Illinois.

Benefits:
Health & Wellness: Your Care, Your Choice
CPS is committed to providing comprehensive health coverage to our employees and their eligible dependents. You'll have access to a variety of choices to best fit your needs:
Medical Plan Options
Pharmacy
Dental
Vision
Behavioral Health & EAP
Employee Wellness Program
Financial Security: Planning for Today and Tomorrow
We understand the importance of financial stability, which is why CPS offers strong retirement and savings options:
Basic Life Insurance
Life and Disability Insurance
Pension Plans
Supplemental Retirement Plans (403(b) and 457(b))
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Spot Pet Insurance
Work-Life Balance: Supporting Your Personal and Professional Life
CPS values the well-being of its employees and offers competitive paid time off policies:
Paid Leave
Sick Leave
Vacation Days
Parental Leaves
Short-Term Disability
Religious Holidays
Leaves
Reference the Chicago Public Schools: A Comprehensive Benefits Overview or the benefits handbook for comprehensive details.

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