We are seeking a Multifamily Development Manager that will lead the full cycle of multifamily real estate development projects, from site acquisition through design, construction, and lease-up to final project stabilization. The Development Manager will oversee all aspects of development, including project feasibility, design, entitlements, budgeting, financing, construction management, and coordination with third-party consultants, contractors, and government agencies.

This role requires strong leadership, project management, and financial acumen to ensure successful execution of multiple concurrent projects within budget, on schedule, and aligned with the company’s strategic goals. The ideal candidate will have experience in multifamily real estate development, including ground-up construction, site planning, entitlement processes, and property stabilization.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Site Selection & Acquisition:

· Identify and evaluate potential development sites based on market conditions, zoning, infrastructure, and other criteria.

· Conduct financial analysis and feasibility studies for new development opportunities, including projected costs, returns, and risks.

· Lead due diligence activities, including environmental assessments, geotechnical reports, surveys, and legal reviews.

· Manage closing process for site acquisition.

2. Project Planning & Entitlements:

· Work with architects, engineers, and consultants to develop initial site plans and building designs that align with market demands and project goals.

· Oversee the entitlement process, including zoning approvals, environmental permits, and community outreach, to secure necessary permits for development.

· Interface with local government agencies, planning commissions, and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with all zoning and building codes.

· Present development plans at public hearings and manage any community relations efforts related to project approvals.

3. Project Design & Coordination:

· Lead design team through schematic design, design development, and construction documentation phases.

· Ensure that all design elements, including architecture, landscaping, and building systems, meet project goals, budget constraints, and timelines.

· Coordinate the value engineering process to ensure design efficiency without compromising quality or marketability.

· Facilitate collaboration among design professionals, contractors, and consultants, ensuring timely delivery of drawings and specifications.

4. Budgeting & Financing:

· Develop and manage project budgets, including hard and soft costs, contingencies, and financing structures.

· Prepare and present detailed pro formas, cash flow projections, and return analyses to senior management and investors.

· Secure project financing, including construction loans and equity investments, and manage lender relationships.

· Monitor and control project costs throughout development to ensure financial viability.

5. Construction Management:

· Oversee the general contractor selection process through bidding, negotiation, and contract execution (lump sum, GMP, or cost-plus).

· Provide leadership and direction to the construction team, including architects, engineers, and contractors, ensuring all parties meet project goals and milestones.

· Monitor construction progress through regular site visits, schedule reviews, and coordination meetings.

· Resolve construction-related issues such as delays, design changes, or budget overruns in collaboration with the contractor and project team.

· Ensure timely delivery of all critical path items, including city inspections, certificates of occupancy, and handover to property management.

6. Lease-Up & Stabilization:

· Collaborate with the property management team to develop and implement a lease-up strategy, including pricing, marketing, and concession programs.

· Oversee project turnover to property management and ensure all warranty periods are properly managed.

· Monitor the performance of the asset during the lease-up phase, ensuring stabilization at targeted occupancy levels and rent projections.

· Provide financial reporting on project status to investors, lenders, and senior management.

7. Risk Management & Compliance:

· Proactively identify potential risks related to development schedules, budgets, or market conditions, and implement mitigation strategies.

· Ensure that all project documentation (contracts, permits, insurance) is in place and up to date.

· Manage any disputes related to contracts, permitting, or construction issues in collaboration with legal counsel as needed.

· Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal regulations governing real estate development and construction.

Qualifications:

Education:

· Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, Urban Planning, Architecture, Finance, or a related field.

· Master’s degree or Real Estate Development Certificate (preferred).

Experience:

· Minimum of 7 years of experience in real estate development, with a strong focus on multifamily or mixed-use projects.

· Proven track record of leading projects from concept to completion, including entitlement, design, and construction phases. HUD or PFC experience a plus.

· Experience with ground-up construction of multifamily developments is required.

Skills & Competencies:

· Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

· Financial acumen and experience with real estate financial modeling, budgeting, and project pro forma creation.

· In-depth knowledge of local zoning and entitlement processes, including familiarity with municipal agencies and approval processes.

· Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to work with both internal teams and external stakeholders, including investors, lenders, and public officials.

· Ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams (architects, engineers, contractors).

· Familiarity with construction management software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam) and financial analysis tools (e.g., Excel).

Working Conditions:

· Ability to travel to project sites and attend meetings with stakeholders and government officials. This includes all areas in the greater Houston MSA

Flexibility to manage multiple projects, which may include extended hours during critical project phases.

If you are interested, please email take a look at our careers page https://www.dakotaprop.com/careers or email your resume to employment@dakotaprop.com today!

** Career opportunity for the individual not being provided the challenge or advancement within their current firm; will consider promoting candidate into role

** Career Opportunity to set standards for growing company

We are an equal opportunity employer and support workforce diversity.

No calls or emails from third parties at this time please.