How much does a Development Specialist make?
The role of a Development Specialist involves a range of responsibilities that focus on supporting and growing organizations. These professionals often work in non-profits or government agencies. Their salary often reflects the level of skill and experience they bring to the table. The average yearly salary for a Development Specialist is $71,685.
Here is a breakdown of the salaries across different experience levels:
- The lowest-paid 10% earn about $36,000 annually.
- The next 10% earn around $46,154.
- Those in the middle 20% make between $56,307 and $66,461.
- About half of all Development Specialists earn between $66,461 and $86,768.
- The top 10% can earn more than $107,075 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Development Specialist?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $108,766
Seattle offers a thriving tech environment for those in development. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide excellent opportunities. The city's innovative culture makes it ideal for growth.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $102,840
In Baltimore, development professionals find a mix of healthcare and tech jobs. Companies such as Under Armour and Black & Decker offer diverse roles. The city's growing tech scene is a big plus.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $92,874
San Francisco is a hub for tech innovation. Working here means being near giants like Google and Salesforce. The city's competitive salary and vibrant community attract top talent.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $90,693
Washington, DC, combines government and tech opportunities. Agencies like the CIA and private firms offer various roles. The city’s diverse job market is very appealing.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $88,802
Boston is rich in educational and tech opportunities. Working for companies like Fidelity and Charles River Analytics is possible. The city’s educational institutions also create a strong talent pool.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $87,960
Los Angeles offers a mix of entertainment and tech jobs. Companies such as Disney and Electronic Arts provide exciting roles. The city’s diverse industries make it a great place to work.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $84,880
Providence has a smaller, tight-knit community. Companies like CVS Health offer great opportunities. The cost of living is lower, making it an attractive option.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $84,368
Charlotte has a growing tech sector. Companies like Bank of America and IBM offer solid opportunities. The city’s business-friendly environment supports career growth.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $82,990
Minneapolis offers a blend of tech and finance jobs. Companies like Target and UnitedHealth Group provide various roles. The city’s strong community and quality of life are big draws.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,834
Sacramento is a growing tech hub. Working here means being near firms like Ardent Health Services and 4Kids Entertainment. The city’s lower cost of living is also a big advantage.
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What are the best companies a Development Specialist can work for?

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3M
Average Salary: $162,090
3M offers rewarding Development Specialist jobs with global operations. These roles focus on enhancing product development. 3M operates worldwide, with headquarters in Minnesota, USA.
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Smoothie King
Average Salary: $152,500
Smoothie King provides promising Development Specialist positions. These jobs aim to boost product innovation and customer engagement. The company has over 2,000 locations across the United States.
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Medtronic
Average Salary: $143,542
Medtronic is a leading company in medical technology. It offers Development Specialist roles that focus on developing groundbreaking medical devices. Medtronic has a presence in over 150 countries.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $134,361
NYU Langone Health provides Development Specialist jobs that center on improving healthcare technology. These positions are located in New York City, with potential for global impact.
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Penumbra
Average Salary: $127,500
Penumbra specializes in minimally invasive technology. It offers rewarding Development Specialist jobs focusing on advancing medical devices. The company operates globally, with headquarters in California, USA.
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SAP
Average Salary: $120,424
SAP offers Development Specialist roles in software development. These jobs focus on creating enterprise software solutions. SAP operates worldwide, with major offices in Germany and the USA.
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Sartorius
Average Salary: $112,500
Sartorius provides Development Specialist positions focused on life science and technology. These roles are pivotal in developing innovative solutions. Sartorius operates globally, with headquarters in Germany.
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Hackensack Meridian Health
Average Salary: $112,112
Hackensack Meridian Health offers Development Specialist jobs that focus on enhancing healthcare services. These roles are located in New Jersey, USA, with opportunities for broader impact.
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U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $109,871
U.S. Bank provides Development Specialist positions focused on financial technology. These roles are vital in creating innovative banking solutions. U.S. Bank operates nationwide in the USA.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $109,054
Advocate Aurora Health offers Development Specialist jobs centered on healthcare innovation. These positions are located in Illinois and Wisconsin, USA, with a focus on improving patient care.
How to earn more as a Development Specialist?
A Development Specialist has many opportunities to earn more income. This role involves helping communities and organizations grow. Increasing income can happen by focusing on key areas. This can improve skills and job performance.
Here are five ways to boost earnings as a Development Specialist:
- Advance Education: More education can lead to higher pay. Consider getting a master’s degree in a related field. Attend workshops and training sessions to stay updated on the latest skills.
- Gain Experience: Experience matters. Work on diverse projects to build a strong portfolio. Seek roles that offer challenging tasks. This will help to develop a wide range of skills.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focus on areas with high demand. This can include technology, sustainability, or international development. Specializing can make one more valuable to employers.
- Network Actively: Building a strong professional network can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attend industry conferences and join professional organizations. Connect with peers and mentors who can provide advice and referrals.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership roles can increase earnings. Pursue positions such as project manager or team lead. This will allow to manage teams and drive projects to success.



