Community Development Specialist

Join Our Team as a Community Development Specialist

Are you a highly organized and detail-oriented professional looking to make an impact? The Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission is seeking a dedicated Community Development Specialist to join our team in a full-time capacity (35 hours per week). This role is crucial in providing technical expertise and support that contributes directly to our mission. The Specialist will perform a wide range of planning, grant preparation, and project administration duties. This includes direct interaction with member cities, counties, non-profit agencies, and state/federal funding partners, requiring excellent communication skills and a commitment to community development.

The OFRPC was created to facilitate the cooperative effort of its member municipalities and counties in solving problems and planning the future development of human, natural, and economic resources of the Ozark Foothills region. The Commission serves as a guide to local units of government in accomplishing a coordinated and efficient development of the region and the promotion of its public health, safety, general welfare, and economic prosperity in accordance with the area's existing and future needs.

Join an office culture that has great flexibility to achieve your ideal work/life balance and a rewarding benefits package. A 35-hour week, flexible schedule/possible 4-day work week, comp time accrual, MoLAGERS Defined Benefit Pension Plan, health insurance/Health Savings Account, dental/vision insurance opportunity, life insurance, and vacation time that grows with years of service. Additionally, professional development opportunities are available.

Salary Range: $35,000–$38,000

In this role, you will:

· Prepare grant applications for assigned projects and programs including agencies such as the Economic Development Administration, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Missouri Department of Economic Development, Community Development Block Grant, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Delta Regional Authority, and National Park Service.

· Conduct research, financial analyses, budgets, needs assessments, and project completion reports.

· Prepare periodic and annual progress reports for active projects and programs.

· Develop and maintain professional relationships with local elected officials, city/county staff, and partners from regional, state, and federal organizations.

· Identify and secure project opportunities and funding proposals that support regional community needs and agency initiatives.

· Travel regularly within the OFRPC region, with occasional overnight travel to statewide meetings and conferences in Jefferson City and beyond.

We are looking for someone with:

· A related 4-year degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Community Development, Urban and Regional Planning, Public Policy, Political Science, Geography (GIS), Finance, Economics, Sociology, Marketing, or a closely related field (or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience).

· Expertise in Microsoft Office applications, technology, and web-based software.

· Superior organizational and time management abilities to handle multiple priorities seamlessly.

· Outstanding interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

· A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle for regional travel.

How to Apply:
Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter, along with three professional references, by October 28, 2026 to:

Community Development Specialist Search
Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission
3019 Fair Street Poplar Bluff, MO 63901

Or submit via e-mail to Alan Lutes, Executive Director, at [email protected] with the subject title Community Development Specialist Search.

The Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minority applicants are strongly encouraged.

Pay: $35,000.00 - $38,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person