The Development Manager Position

The Development Manager oversees the execution of development projects from site control through closing across multiple states, with a focus on multifamily, build-to-rent (BTR), and senior living communities.

This role supports the full lifecycle of development execution, from early-stage transactions through closing. Responsibilities include assisting with the negotiation and execution of Letters of Intent (LOIs) and Purchase & Sale Agreements (PSAs), while tracking critical dates, contingencies, and closing requirements across multiple active projects. The position also plays a key role in managing deal progression from site control through closing, coordinating due diligence efforts such as zoning, utilities, environmental, survey, and geotechnical reviews, and overseeing third-party consultants to ensure timelines and deliverables are met. Throughout this process, the individual is expected to identify potential risks and escalate key issues to leadership.

In parallel, the role drives land entitlement and project coordination efforts by managing zoning and land use approvals, preparing and submitting entitlement applications, and working closely with municipalities, governing bodies, and local stakeholders. This includes attending and supporting public meetings such as Planning & Zoning and City Council sessions. The position also coordinates architects, civil engineers, and consultants through pre-construction phases, leading project meetings and tracking milestones across developments. Additionally, it maintains organized documentation, prepares internal approval packages, and owns weekly pipeline reporting to provide clear visibility into progress and risks. Finally, the role ensures a seamless project handoff by delivering fully entitled, vetted projects and coordinating the transition to internal Owner’s Representatives or construction teams with complete documentation and approvals.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in real estate, Urban Planning, Construction Management, or a related field
• 5-7+ years of experience in real estate development, with direct involvement in zoning, entitlements, and land use approvals
• Demonstrated experience managing entitlement processes, including coordination with municipalities, public agencies, and community stakeholders
• Strong understanding of zoning codes, land use regulations, and due diligence requirements
• Proven ability to manage third-party consultants (civil, legal, environmental, etc.) and drive deliverables to meet project timelines
• Experience navigating public approval processes, including Planning Commission and City Council meetings
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with internal teams, consultants, and external stakeholders
• Willingness to travel (~35%, including overnight travel as needed, not on a weekly basis

Compensation, Benefits and Structure for the Development Manager

O’Brien Construction provides a competitive compensation package that includes a competitive base salary based on experience, skills and abilities, annual bonus, paid time off, employer-sponsored 401k program, health, dental, vision, and life insurance, company-paid electronic devices, and opportunities for professional development. Travel for this position is frequent and often throughout the Midwest.