Community Development Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era, the role of Community Development Managers is becoming increasingly pivotal.

As societies evolve and communities grow, the demand for skilled professionals who can cultivate, enhance, and protect our community infrastructure escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Community Development Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of community development,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Community Development Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Community Development Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Community Development Managers are responsible for building, cultivating, and improving communities and neighborhoods.

They work with various stakeholders, including community members, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, to create and implement strategies for community development.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing community development strategies and initiatives
• Coordinating with local government, businesses, and non-profit organizations to promote community development
• Organizing and facilitating community meetings, forums, and events to encourage community participation and engagement
• Identifying funding opportunities and writing grant applications to secure financial resources for community development projects
• Working closely with community members to identify their needs and aspirations
• Evaluating the effectiveness of community development programs and initiatives, and making necessary adjustments
• Managing and supervising community development staff and volunteers
• Building relationships with community leaders and influencers to promote community development initiatives
• Preparing reports and presentations on community development activities for stakeholders
• Advocating for community needs and concerns to relevant authorities and stakeholders

 

Community Development Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and dedicated Community Development Manager to strengthen community relations and promote our company’s mission.

The Community Development Manager’s responsibilities include identifying community needs, implementing initiatives to meet these needs, and developing relations with community leaders and organizations.

The ideal candidate should have strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and in-depth knowledge of community development principles.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify community needs and develop appropriate responses or initiatives.
• Implement strategies to foster a positive relationship between our organization and the community.
• Coordinate with community leaders, organizations, and stakeholders to promote and improve community development initiatives.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of community development programs.
• Prepare and manage budgets for community development activities.
• Organize and manage community events and activities.
• Develop and implement fundraising strategies.
• Communicate regularly with community members and respond to their inquiries or concerns.
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Community Development Manager or similar role.
• Strong understanding of community development principles and practices.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Experience in project management and event planning.
• Strong networking skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with community members and stakeholders.
• Experience in budget management and fundraising.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Social Sciences, or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Community Development Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent visits to community sites. Some travel may be required for meetings or events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Community Outreach.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Community Development Manager Do?

Community Development Managers are professionals who work in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or businesses that focus on community outreach.

Their primary role is to develop and implement programs and initiatives that benefit the community, often with a focus on disadvantaged groups.

This involves identifying community needs, establishing goals, and planning and coordinating projects.

They work closely with other community stakeholders, such as local government, schools, businesses, and volunteers, to build partnerships and secure funding or resources for their projects.

Community Development Managers also manage a team of community workers, offering guidance and support, and ensuring their team’s actions align with the overall goals of the organization.

In addition, they may be responsible for raising awareness about their organization’s community work, which can involve organizing events, creating promotional material, or meeting with media.

They play a crucial role in promoting social justice, fostering community spirit, and improving the quality of life in the communities they serve.

 

Community Development Manager Qualifications and Skills

Community Development Managers should possess a unique blend of skills and qualifications that enable them to effectively engage with communities, including:

• Outstanding interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse community groups, and establish and maintain strong relationships with community members and stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to clearly articulate the organization’s goals and initiatives to community members and other stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills to identify community issues and needs, and develop and implement effective strategies and programs to address them.
• Leadership skills to manage and motivate teams, and guide community development initiatives to successful outcomes.
• Experience in project management and program development, including the ability to plan, organize, and monitor various community initiatives.
• Understanding of public policy and its impact on communities, and the ability to advocate for beneficial policies.
• Ability to use technology effectively for communication, data collection, and analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of community programs.
• Strong cultural awareness and sensitivity to work effectively with diverse communities and groups.

 

Community Development Manager Experience Requirements

Community Development Managers are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, public relations, communication, or a related field.

This foundational education is usually paired with a minimum of 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience in community outreach, nonprofit organizations, or social work.

Internships or part-time roles in nonprofits, community organizations, or government institutions are often valuable early experiences that contribute to an entry-level candidate’s suitability for the role.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience may have honed their skills in roles such as Community Outreach Coordinator, Social Worker, or Project Manager.

They often have practical experience in project management, strategic planning, and community engagement.

Community Development Managers with more than 5 years of experience typically have a track record of success in leading community initiatives, managing teams, and developing strategic partnerships.

They may also have experience in grant writing and fundraising.

This level of experience positions them for more senior or directorial roles within the community development sector.

 

Community Development Manager Education and Training Requirements

Community Development Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in public administration, social work, urban planning, or a related field.

In addition to this, they must have a solid understanding of community development principles and practices, as well as experience working with local government and non-profit organizations.

Their education should ideally cover subjects like urban sociology, public policy, community organizing, and project management.

For more advanced positions, a master’s degree in public administration, social work, or a related field may be required.

This level of education provides an in-depth understanding of strategies for addressing community issues and managing large-scale projects.

Certain certifications may also be beneficial for Community Development Managers.

These could include Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), Certified Community Development Specialist (CCDS), or credentials in project management or non-profit management.

Continuing education and professional development are vital in this role, as the field of community development is constantly evolving.

This could be through workshops, seminars, or relevant courses.

Finally, practical experience in community development, non-profit organizations, or local government is often required, as it equips the individual with hands-on knowledge of community needs and solutions.

 

Community Development Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Community Development Manager is $67,537 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can range depending on factors such as level of experience, specific industry, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Community Development Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Community Development Manager need?

A Community Development Manager needs to have strong communication and leadership skills to effectively lead community-based programs and initiatives.

They should have excellent project management abilities to oversee multiple projects at once and strong problem-solving skills to address any community concerns or issues.

Further, they should be adaptable, able to work collaboratively, and have a strong understanding of community development principles and practices.

 

Does a Community Development Manager need a degree?

Most Community Development Managers have a bachelor’s degree in social work, sociology, public policy, or a related field.

Some organizations may prefer or require candidates with a master’s degree.

In addition to formal education, experience in community outreach, project management, or a related area is typically required.

 

What should you look for in a Community Development Manager resume?

In a Community Development Manager’s resume, look for a strong educational background in a related field and experience in community outreach or development.

They should be able to demonstrate their ability to manage projects, work collaboratively, and effectively communicate with various community stakeholders.

Experience in grant writing or fundraising can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Community Development Manager?

A good Community Development Manager should have a strong passion for community improvement and social justice.

They should be excellent communicators, capable of fostering relationships with diverse community members and stakeholders.

Good problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions are also important, as they often need to address and resolve community issues.

A successful Community Development Manager should also be an effective leader, capable of motivating team members and leading community-based initiatives.

 

What are the daily duties of a Community Development Manager?

A Community Development Manager typically spends their day managing community development projects, liaising with community stakeholders, and developing strategies to address community needs.

They may also spend time preparing grant proposals, conducting community outreach, and overseeing a team of community development workers.

The role may also involve attending meetings, reporting on project progress, and working with other departments or organizations to coordinate community initiatives.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true responsibilities and challenges of being a Community Development Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about organizing events or writing project proposals.

It’s about shaping the future of communities, one project at a time.

With our comprehensive Community Development Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating precise job listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every project contributes to the overall development of the community.

Let’s shape the future. Together.

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