Community Development Consultant

Community Development Consultant – Thoma Development Consultants

About Thoma Development Consultants

Thoma Development Consultants is a community development consulting firm based in Cortland, New York that has partnered with municipalities across New York since 1980. We help communities plan, secure funding, and implement projects that strengthen local economies and improve quality of life.

Our team works closely with local governments to deliver a wide range of services, from planning and grant writing to project management and program administration. Our mission is to build long-term partnerships with our clients and support meaningful, lasting change in communities throughout Upstate New York.

At Thoma, we value collaboration, professional growth, and a supportive workplace culture. We offer flexible work hours and a limited hybrid remote work policy to help employees maintain a healthy work–life balance.

Position Overview

Thoma Development Consultants is seeking a Community Development Consultant to support community and economic development projects for municipal clients throughout New York State.

This position is well suited for an entry-level or early- to mid-career professional interested in working on projects that directly impact communities. The role combines grant writing, grant administration, project management, and community planning.

You will work both independently and as part of a collaborative consulting team, helping municipalities secure funding, manage projects, and implement initiatives that improve housing, infrastructure, and local economies.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare grant applications to secure funding from state and federal community development programs
• Manage grant-funded projects, including program administration and compliance monitoring
• Coordinate with municipal staff, agencies, and community organizations to gather data and support project implementation
• Support community outreach and public engagement efforts
• Participate in public meetings and stakeholder discussions as needed
• Build relationships with municipal leaders and community partners
• Assist with community planning projects, including comprehensive plans, housing condition surveys, and waterfront revitalization plans

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Environmental Studies, Geography, Business, or a related field
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Familiarity with video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications

Preferred

• Experience with grant writing, including NYS Consolidated Funding Applications (CFA) and/or Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs
• Experience administering grant-funded programs
• Experience in community planning or community development initiatives
• AICP Planners or individuals with municipal planning experience are encouraged to apply

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: Hiring range of $60,000 – $71,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits include:

• Paid vacation, sick leave, and personal time
• Paid holidays
• Employer-sponsored health insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Profit sharing
• Life insurance
• Long term disability insurance

How to Apply

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to:

Thoma Development Consultants

34 Tompkins Street

Cortland, NY 13045

or email [email protected]

Thoma Development Consultants is an Equal Opportunity Employer.