Developer
FLSA Classification: Exempt - Administrative
Supervisor: Director of Development
Role Summary
The Developer is responsible for managing pre-development opportunities from inception through application submittal and construction closing, ensuring seamless transition to Asset Management. This role identifies viable development opportunities, conducts market and financial feasibility analyses, secures entitlements and permits, and coordinates with investors, municipalities, and other key stakeholders. The Developer ensures that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with strategic goals and market demand.
What You'll Do
- Identify and evaluate potential development opportunities consistent with organizational strategic priorities, including site assessments, zoning verification, and market alignment
- Oversee financial feasibility analyses, including project pro formas, cost estimates, and risk assessments to support investment recommendations
- Manage all pre-development activities from project conception through construction closing, including due diligence processes such as environmental assessments, surveys, appraisals, and engineering studies
- Review and interpret legal documents including purchase agreements, easements, and title commitments to identify and mitigate potential project risks
- Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules, ensuring milestones and deliverables are achieved on time
- Prepare and submit applications for public and private financing programs, including Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), grants, and debt/equity instruments
- Lead financial modeling to determine optimal project structures, evaluating multiple funding scenarios to maximize returns and minimize risks
- Coordinate with lenders, investors, and government agencies to negotiate favorable financing and closing terms
- Manage all entitlement processes including zoning approvals, variances, site plan approvals, and permits
- Represent the organization in public meetings and hearings with municipalities and community stakeholders
- Collaborate with legal counsel and consultants to ensure projects comply with all applicable regulations, building codes, and local ordinances
- Work collaboratively with architects, engineers, and consultants to guide project design consistent with financial and operational objectives
- Oversee design development to ensure alignment with project budgets, schedules, and investor requirements
- Support the transition of projects to construction and Asset Management teams by preparing all necessary documentation and facilitating coordination meetings
- Serve as primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders during all stages of development
- Build and maintain positive relationships with investors, financial partners, community leaders, and public agencies
- Prepare and deliver project presentations, status reports, and performance summaries for senior management and external audiences
- Foster collaboration across internal departments to ensure consistent communication and alignment with corporate goals
- Track project performance metrics and prepare regular reports on budget variances, schedule adherence, and risk exposure
- Provide input into the organization's long-term development pipeline and portfolio strategy
- Contribute to process improvement initiatives aimed at increasing efficiency and data accuracy within the development function
- Support continuous improvement in project evaluation methodologies and post-closing performance analysis
- Lead all activities associated with transaction and financial closings, including document review, coordination with legal counsel, and lender/investor communication
- Ensure timely completion of all conditions precedent and closing deliverables
- Facilitate a structured handoff to Asset Management, ensuring all financial, legal, and operational materials are fully documented and organized
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Finance, Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
- Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in real estate development, project management, construction management, or a related field
- Demonstrated experience managing real estate projects from pre-development through construction and close-out
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with project management tools and financial modeling software
- Understanding of real estate finance concepts (e.g., IRR, ROI, debt/equity structures, pro formas)
- Familiarity with zoning, entitlements, permitting, and land-use regulations
- Strong financial analysis and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously under tight deadlines
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, government agencies, and community stakeholders
- Skilled in negotiation and conflict resolution
Preferred Qualifications
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
This position works in a typical professional office environment that is climate-controlled, well-lit, and designed to support both individual productivity and group interaction. Work is typically performed at a desk or workstation using standard office equipment such as computers, telephones, printers, and copiers. The employee is regularly required to listen and take notes, type on a computer, and speak on calls and in person. This position will occasionally travel to proposed development sites.