Community Development Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s connected world, the focus on Community Development Specialists has never been more pronounced.

As communities continue to grow and evolve, the need for skilled professionals who can facilitate, enhance, and protect our communal structures becomes more critical.

But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a Community Development Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of community development,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we unveil a comprehensive Community Development Specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Community Development Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Community Development Specialists are responsible for coordinating and implementing community development plans, programs, and services within a community.

They work towards improving the social, economic, and environmental conditions of the community.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Analyze community needs and develop appropriate development strategies
• Design and implement community development projects and programs
• Collaborate with stakeholders such as community leaders, government officials, nonprofits and private companies
• Coordinate community services like health, education, and social services
• Identify and secure funding sources for community development programs
• Facilitate and manage community meetings, workshops and forums
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of community development programs
• Prepare and present reports on community development activities
• Build and maintain relationships with community members and other stakeholders
• Advocate for the needs and interests of the community in various forums
• Provide technical assistance and training to community groups

 

Community Development Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Community Development Specialist to join our team.

As a Community Development Specialist, you will plan, coordinate, and implement community development programs aimed at strengthening the community.

Your duties include identifying community needs, developing strategic plans, managing community projects, coordinating with external agencies, and reporting on program effectiveness.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of community development principles and has proven experience in project management, community engagement and stakeholder relations.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify community needs and develop appropriate strategic plans
• Plan and manage community development projects
• Coordinate with external agencies, government bodies and non-profit organizations
• Monitor and report on community development program effectiveness
• Facilitate community meetings and workshops
• Engage with community members and stakeholders to gather feedback and understand their needs
• Conduct research and analysis on community issues and trends
• Prepare and manage budgets for community development programs
• Develop and implement strategies for community engagement
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Community Development, Social Work, Urban Planning, or a related field
• Proven experience as a Community Development Specialist or similar role
• Knowledge of community development principles and practices
• Experience in project management and budgeting
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Ability to work with diverse populations and foster a cooperative work environment
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Community Development Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with community visits. Some travel may be required for meetings or site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Community Development Manager or Director of Community Development.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Specialist Do?

Community Development Specialists typically work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.

They can also work as consultants or advocates for specific communities.

Their primary role is to assist communities in their growth and improvement efforts.

They often facilitate and organize events, workshops, and meetings to engage with the community and gather feedback.

Community Development Specialists conduct research and data analysis to understand the needs of the community, develop effective strategies, and monitor the progress of implemented plans.

They often work closely with various stakeholders, including community leaders, local residents, business owners, and government officials, to identify and resolve issues affecting the community.

They are also responsible for securing necessary funds for community projects through grant writing and fundraising efforts.

Their job is to ensure the growth and development of the community in a sustainable and inclusive manner, addressing issues such as economic development, social inequality, and environmental sustainability.

In addition, Community Development Specialists often act as mediators in conflicts within the community, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation among community members.

 

Community Development Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Community Development Specialist should possess a diverse set of skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong understanding of community development principles and practices to effectively facilitate community growth and enhancement.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to foster relationships and collaboration within the community and with key stakeholders.
• Ability to create, plan and manage programs that respond to identified needs in the community.
• Excellent communication skills to engage with various audiences, articulate community needs, and advocate for resources and support.
• Problem-solving abilities to address community issues and conflicts, and develop effective solutions.
• Research skills to study community trends, demographics, and other pertinent information that can inform strategic planning.
• Grant writing and fundraising skills to secure financial resources for community programs.
• Understanding of public policy, social services, and local government operations to navigate regulations and resources effectively.
• Ability to inspire and motivate community members to participate in development initiatives and projects.

 

Community Development Specialist Experience Requirements

Community Development Specialists are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree in social work, urban studies, or a related field.

Entry-level positions often require 1 to 2 years of related experience, which could be gained through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in community organizing, social work, or non-profit organizations.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often expected to have more advanced skills and knowledge.

This experience may be gained in roles such as Community Organizer, Social Worker, or Non-profit Program Manager.

These professionals often have experience with community outreach, project management, and grant writing.

Community Development Specialists with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and are often prepared for supervisory or managerial roles.

They may have experience leading community development projects, overseeing a team, and forming strategic partnerships.

They might also have advanced knowledge and experience in community-based research, policy development, and program evaluation.

In addition to these experience requirements, successful Community Development Specialists often have a deep understanding of the community they serve, strong communication skills, and a demonstrated commitment to social justice and community development.

 

Community Development Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Community Development Specialists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in community development, urban studies, public administration, social work, or a related field.

Their courses often cover subjects like community organization, public policy, economic development, sociology, and project management.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in community development, urban planning, or a related field, particularly for leadership or high responsibility roles.

In addition to formal education, Community Development Specialists need to develop strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

They must be able to work with diverse groups, understand community needs, and develop strategic plans to address these needs.

Certifications in project management or social work can also be beneficial for those in this role.

Continuous professional development in the form of seminars, workshops, and conferences is encouraged as they introduce new concepts, strategies, and best practices in community development.

Work experience in non-profit organizations, government agencies, or social work can be a major asset for a Community Development Specialist.

These experiences can provide practical understanding of community dynamics and the processes involved in policy making and implementation.

 

Community Development Specialist Salary Expectations

A Community Development Specialist earns an average salary of $46,949 (USD) per year.

This salary can differ significantly based on factors such as years of experience, education level, the specific organization, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Community Development Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Community Development Specialist need?

Community Development Specialists should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to understand community needs and engage effectively with community members.

They should be adept at project management and strategic planning.

They need problem-solving skills to address community issues, and they should have a strong understanding of social services and community resources.

Knowledge of public policy and experience with grant writing are also beneficial.

 

Do Community Development Specialists need a degree?

Most Community Development Specialist roles require a bachelor’s degree in community development, social work, urban planning or a related field.

Some roles may also require a master’s degree or significant work experience in community development or related areas.

Many employers also value experience working with specific populations, such as low-income families, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.

 

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

A Community Development Specialist resume should highlight a strong background in community work and project management.

Look for experience in developing and implementing community programs, managing budgets, and writing grants.

Skills in conflict resolution and negotiation can also be beneficial.

The resume should also indicate a commitment to social justice and community improvement.

 

What qualities make a good Community Development Specialist?

A good Community Development Specialist is passionate about their work and dedicated to improving their community.

They should be empathetic, patient, and understanding, with strong interpersonal skills to build relationships and negotiate with different community members.

They must also be organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

A good Community Development Specialist should also be a creative thinker, able to come up with innovative solutions to community issues.

 

What are the daily duties of a Community Development Specialist?

A typical day for a Community Development Specialist may involve meeting with community members or local leaders, planning and implementing community development programs, and evaluating the success of those programs.

They may also spend time writing grant proposals, managing budgets, and liaising with other social service agencies.

Additionally, they might conduct research on community needs and develop strategies to address those needs.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unravelled the intricacies of what it means to be a Community Development Specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about organizing events or managing volunteers.

It’s about nurturing communities, one project at a time.

With our definitive Community Development Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make your move.

But why halt here?

Take a further leap with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for refining detailed listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every community project is a piece of a larger tapestry.

Let’s weave that vibrant tapestry. Together.

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