Search Community And Economic Development jobs

59 Community And Economic Development Jobs

59 jobs found Jobs found Email me jobs like this
Load More

  • Assistant Director - Community Services Department

    Fort Lauderdale, Florida United States City of Fort Lauderdale, FL Full Time $112,008.83 - $213,653.64 Annually Nov 14, 2025
    City of Fort Lauderdale Employer:

    City of Fort Lauderdale, FL

    Join us in Fort Lauderdale, where career aspirations meet boundless opportunities in a city brimming with excitement and promise. As an employee of the City of Fort Lauderdale, you'll become part of a dynamic team dedicated to serving our vibrant community while enjoying the countless perks of living in a tropical paradise. Imagine waking up to warm sunshine and ocean breezes before heading to work in one of the most picturesque cities in the United States. As an employee of the City of Fort Lauderdale, you'll not only thrive in a diverse and inclusive work environment but also benefit from a wealth of professional development opportunities and competitive compensation packages. Whether you're passionate about public service, urban planning, technology, or environmental sustainability, there's a fulfilling career path waiting for you here. Beyond the workplace, Fort Lauderdale offers an unparalleled lifestyle that seamlessly blends work and play. With world-renowned beaches just moments away from your office and a vibrant cultural scene encompassing art galleries, museums, and entertainment venues, you'll find endless opportunities to unwind and recharge after a day's work. Join us in Fort Lauderdale, where every day is an adventure, and your career aspirations can flourish in a city that truly has it all. We’re the city you’ll never want to leave.

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    POSITION SUMMARY

    The Community Services Department seeks an Assistant Director.

    The Community Services Department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit the City of Fort Lauderdale. We achieve this by delivering responsive, community-focused programs that strengthen residents and stakeholders and promote economic growth. The department is responsible for a wide range of initiatives, through divisions and programs including:

      ◦ Housing & Community Development and Homelessness: The department leads efforts to expand affordable housing options and provide effective solutions and resources to address homelessness. We administer federal and state grant-funded programs to create and manage affordable housing and support individuals on their path to stability.

      ◦ Economic Development: The department focuses on promoting long-term prosperity and sustainable growth by supporting various industries including aviation, finance, marine, healthcare, professional services, technology, and tourism among others. We serve as a central hub for business support, retention, and expansion, fostering entrepreneurship and attracting new investments to strengthen the city's economic competitiveness.

      ◦ Public Art & Cultural Affairs: The department champions the advancement of arts and culture throughout Fort Lauderdale. This includes planning and implementing cultural programs and initiatives, such as the Public Art and Placemaking Program, to promote community identity and civic pride. We also work to showcase the city as a premier cultural destination.

      ◦ Community Enhancement & Compliance (Code Compliance): Our team ensures compliance with the City's Code of Ordinances to promote public health and safety, and the preservation of all property. We engage with residents to foster voluntary compliance and address community concerns in a timely manner. This work has a positive impact on property values and the overall quality of life.

      ◦ Customer Support: We provide exceptional customer service through the city's centralized customer service center. Our goal is to streamline and centralize the process for addressing community inquiries and service requests, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for everyone who reaches out for assistance through multiple platforms.

      ◦ Business Tax: The department is responsible for the annual billing and collection of the Business Tax, which is required for the privilege of operating any business, profession, or occupation within the city limits. We also ensure compliance with the City’s Business Tax Ordinance.


    Position Overview
    The Assistant Director will direct the operations of assigned divisions, programs and areas of responsibility within the department. Under general direction of the Department Director, the employee performs complex assignments requiring extensive initiative and independent judgment to ensure that services are provided with the maximum effective use of personnel and ensuring operational functions are accomplished in accordance with applicable rules, regulations and laws.

    This is a Non-classified "at-will" position and not subject to Civil Service Rules or any collective bargaining agreement.

    ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

    Essential functions are the basic job duties that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. The omission of a function does not preclude management from assigning essential duties not listed herein if such duties relate to the position.
      ◦ Plans, coordinates, manages, and supervises, and oversees the activities and operations for administrative and or technical operations of the department and heads major initiatives.
      ◦ Manages the work of assigned personnel; delegates and reviews work assignments; hires, trains, and evaluates employees.
      ◦ Establishes goals, objectives, and work plans; oversees the design and development of a wide variety of programs and projects related to assigned areas.
      ◦ Recommends, oversees and administers annual budget of an assigned operation, including organization structure and staffing requirements and monitoring expenditures to ensure operation of divisions is within approved budget.
      ◦ Conducts research; studies and analyzes a variety of special projects and assignments; makes recommendations; prepares and presents reports and studies.
      ◦ Recommends, in the interest of the City, that eligible applicants be hired, and that subordinate employees be reassigned, transferred, disciplined, suspended, terminated, promoted, or commended; participates in the adjustment of grievances; participates in the administration of agreements resulting from collective bargaining negotiations; acts in a confidential capacity.
      ◦ Performs related work as required


    JOB REQUIREMENTS, PREFERENCES & WORK ENVIRONMENT

    MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Community Development, Economic Development, or closely related field.A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience particularly in Community Development, Economic Development, and relevant functions that involve community-facing engagement, or that require administration of and compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory policies and laws (division manager level or higher is preferred).A minimum of three (3) years of experience developing and administering a department or division budget or complex funding mechanisms, including federal/state grants (e.g., for Housing/Homelessness) and local government revenue) e.g., Business Tax).Additional qualifying experience or completion of coursework at an accredited college or university in a job-related field, may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required experience or education.A minimum of 2 years prior supervisory experience. If claiming Veteran's Preference, candidates must attach a DD214 Member 4 form, and the City of Fort Lauderdale's veteran's preference claim form ( J-204) . to the online application

    PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
    Experience specifically focused on homeless initiatives, including experience with Continuum of Care (CoC) models, Housing First strategies, and coordinated entry systems.Certification as a Professional Community & Economic Developer (PCED) and/or an Economic Developer (CEcD).Financial management experience assisting with budget preparation, analyzing funding requests, and overseeing the preparation of financial reports for grants (e.g., CDBG, HOME, HOPWA, and SHIP).Experience in promoting or administering public arts, culture, customer engagement, or regulatory licensing programs.
    As public servants, employees may be required to work immediately before, during, and/or after an emergency. All employees must be available and able to work assigned shifts as determined by their Department Heads.

    PHYSICAL STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
    The position is generally sedentary. Employees sit most of the time but may walk or stand for brief periods of time.

    The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    HOW TO APPLY & SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

    Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; interview; employment record, background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position.

    The City of Fort Lauderdale is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, inclusive employer and a Drug Free Workplace. The City of Fort Lauderdale does not discriminate based on age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.

    Veterans' preference per Florida law. If claiming Veteran's Preference, candidates must attach a DD214 Member 4 form, and the City of Fort Lauderdale's veteran's preference claim form ( J-204) . to the online application.



    The City of Fort Lauderdale offers a comprehensive benefits package to all regular full-time employees including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and short-term disability insurance.

    Click here for an overview of employment information including our benefits package.

    Say "Hello" to the City of Fort Lauderdale and Say "Goodbye" to Your Student Loan!Under the U.S. Department of Education's Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, the remaining balance on your student loan may be forgiven after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments while working full-time at the City of Fort Lauderdale. Click here for more information or to see if you qualify.

    In addition to the competitive benefits package and salary, the City of Fort Lauderdale participates in the Florida Retirement System (FRS) which offers an investment option and a pension option and requires a 3% contribution from employees. All new City of Fort Lauderdale employees are automatically enrolled in FRS. Click here to view additional information on the Florida Retirement System.

    Closing Date/Time: 11/30/2025 11:59 PM Eastern
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

LATEST JOBS

Navigating the Path to a Career in Community and Economic Development

Navigating the Path to a Career in Community and Economic Development

In the dynamic field of community and economic development, professionals dedicate their efforts to crafting strategies that stimulate growth, enhance community well-being, and foster economic prosperity.

For those intrigued by the opportunity to shape the futures of communities and regions, a myriad of job prospects await.

Let's dive deeper into exploring community based organizations and the job sector surrounding it, while also looking at some step-by-step processes for on applying to these positions through our dedicated website.

 

Understanding Economic Development Jobs

Community and economic development jobs encompass a range of roles dedicated to improving local, regional, and national communities from economic, social, and financial standpoints.

These positions often involve the community development department collaborating with leadership councils, non-profit organizations, and government entities to devise and implement development plans that address local needs and opportunities.

What Types of Jobs are Available in the Community and Economic Development Sector?

Though not fully extensive, here is a look at some of the most common types of careers that fall under the umbrella of community and economic development positions in the public sector.

category0013-image-001-careers-in-government
Economic Development Officer:

An Economic Development Officer is responsible for keeping the focus on attracting businesses, supporting local enterprises, and job creation strategies, aiming to stimulate economic growth and prosperity within the community through strategic partnerships and initiatives.

Explore Job Categories:

These types of coordinators work on community engagement connection initiatives, social development projects, and enhancing public amenities, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among residents while addressing local needs and aspirations.

Urban Planner:

An Urban Planner gets the unique role of being involved in planning and zoning to ensure sustainable growth and the effective use of land, striving to create vibrant, resilient communities that balance economic development with environmental conservation and social equity.

Project Manager:

While a project manager can mean a large variety of things, the biggest role they play is to oversee specific development projects and programs, while also ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet community needs.

Project managers will perform related duties to leadership positions and are tasked with serving as a catalyst for positive change and improvement within the community through meticulous planning and execution.

Policy Analyst:

A policy analyst will research and prepare reports as well as develop policies related to economic and community development.

A policy analyst makes presentations and performs related duties that allow for leveraging of data-driven insights to inform decision-making and drive positive outcomes for the community.

Director of Economic Development:

Economic Director roles are key in working closely with leadership to set strategic directions, foster collaboration and innovation, as well as to drive economic growth and prosperity at the local, regional, or national level.

They are versed in working well with everyone from property owners to the city council in areas of code compliance, economic advancement, and other types of operations that affect a jurisdiction in growing responsibly and in a way that's healthy for everyone.

Sustainability Coordinator:

State and city departments often need a sustainability coordinator to help develop and implement strategies for sustainable community and economic growth, which will eventually work to promote environmentally responsible practices and resilience-building initiatives.

Sustainability Coordinators are key to making sure that long-term prosperity and well-being for current and future generations are possible.

Careers In Government
 

Begin Your Career Journey

Launch your career with Careers in Government! Explore exciting opportunities, connect with passionate professionals, and shape your legacy.

JOIN NOW
 

Are You Ready to Apply for Community Development Jobs?

Our website serves as a comprehensive platform for those seeking to embark on or advance their careers in community and economic development.

Here's how to utilize our site to find and apply for your next opportunity:

Step 1: Explore Job Listings

Begin your journey by browsing the current job listings on our website and finding the economic development department positions that appeal to you.

Look at the program goals, the types of tasks you'll be assigned, and what related work is involved.

Use filters to narrow down your search based on location, job type, and experience level. (If you need technical assistance with the application process, reach out for guidance on this.) Each listing provides detailed information, including job responsibilities, qualifications needed, and application deadlines.

Step 2: Understand the Job Requirements

Take the time to thoroughly read the full job description before you decide to apply for any job to ensure that you are one of the qualified individuals they are looking for.

Pay close attention to the qualifications required, such as educational background, experience, and specific skills. Jobs in this field often require at least a bachelor's degree and a keen understanding of both community development and economic development principles.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application

Government jobs often have set dates and deadlines for accepting applications. Pay close attention to the closing date before you begin you application.

  • Resume/CV: Highlight your relevant experience, particularly any work with leadership councils, executive leadership roles, or significant projects in community or economic development. Make it clear what type of general supervision you work best with and where your core strengths lie.
  • Cover Letter: Tailor your cover letter to each job application. Mention specific projects or initiatives you've led or contributed to and how they align with the job you're applying for.
  • Supporting Documents: Prepare any additional documents requested in the job listing, such as references, portfolios, or certifications.
Step 4: Submit Your Application

Follow the application instructions provided in the job listing carefully. Sometimes an organization may require you to apply directly through our website, while others might direct you to an external application process.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

If your application progresses to the interview stage, prepare by reviewing common interview questions in community development.

Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, challenges you've overcome, and how you've contributed to economic and community growth.

Step 6: Continuous Professional Development

Regardless of the outcome, continuously seek opportunities for professional development.

Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to community and economic development. Stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in the field.

 

When You're Ready to Chart Your Next Chapter...Let Us Help

Careers in community and economic development are uniquely rewarding, offering the chance to make tangible differences in people's lives and the well-being of communities.

These roles allow professionals to work on a diverse array of projects, from revitalizing urban centers to developing sustainable economic strategies for rural areas.

A career in economic development is not just a job—it's a commitment to fostering environments where economies can flourish and communities can thrive.

Our website is your gateway to finding a role that matches your skills, passions, and career ambitions in this vital sector.

By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the application process and take your first step toward a fulfilling career in community and economic development.

Whether you're aspiring to join a leadership council, work in an economic management position, or contribute to community development, your journey starts here.

category0013-image-002-careers-in-government

Unlock Government Opportunities with Careers in Government

Elevate your career or find the ideal government talent on Careers in Government! Explore and shape the future with us.

JOIN NOW
 
SHOW MORE