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Director Land Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

J A Watts, LLC

Director of Land Development

Lisle, IL · On-site +1

$176K - $218K/yr

The Director of Land Development leads the planning, design, and execution of residential, commercial, and public development projects, with responsibility for project performance, budgets, schedules ...

J A Watts Inc

Director of Land Development

Lisle, IL · On-site

$176K - $218K/yr

The Director of Land Development leads the planning, design, and execution of residential, commercial, and public development projects, with responsibility for project performance, budgets, schedules ...

Atwell, LLC

Project Manager - Land Development

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$105K - $136K/yr

... land development projects to lead high impact projects across diverse markets. If you're passionate ... Mentor and direct project teams; promote internal communication and knowledge sharing * Maintain ...

Atwell, LLC

Project Manager - Land Development

Lombard, IL · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

... industrial land development to lead high impact projects across diverse markets. If you're ... Mentor and direct project teams; promote internal communication and knowledge sharing * Maintain ...

Atwell, LLC

Project Manager - Land Development

Lombard, IL · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

... land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award ... Mentor and direct project teams; promote internal communication and knowledge sharing * Maintain ...

Atwell, LLC

Project Manager - Land Development

Lombard, IL · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

... land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award ... Mentor and direct project teams; promote internal communication and knowledge sharing * Maintain ...

Invenergy LLC

Associate, Land Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $93K/yr

Position Overview As an Associate, Land Development you will work with the Land Development team to ... Must be self-directed and driven, with the ability and desire to effectively lead. Base Pay $80,000 ...

Invenergy LLC

Associate, Land Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $93K/yr

Position Overview As an Associate, Land Development you will work with the Land Development team to ... Must be self-directed and driven, with the ability and desire to effectively lead. Base Pay $80,000 ...

Invenergy

Associate, Land Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $93K/yr

Position Overview As an Associate, Land Development you will work with the Land Development team to ... Must be self-directed and driven, with the ability and desire to effectively lead. Base Pay $80,000 ...

V3 Companies

Project Manager - Land Development

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

And, as part of our Land Development team, you will collaborate with 450+ designers, engineers, and ... Leading by example, participating in and directing training sessions and management meetings to ...

V3 Companies

Project Manager - Land Development

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

And, as part of our Land Development team, you will collaborate with 450+ designers, engineers, and ... Leading by example, participating in and directing training sessions and management meetings to ...

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Director Land Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16.5K

$98.6K

$183.4K

How much do director land development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for director land development in Chicago, IL is $98,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,200.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director land development do?

A Director of Land Development oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of projects related to the development of land for residential, commercial, or industrial use. This role involves managing teams, collaborating with government agencies, ensuring compliance with zoning and environmental regulations, and overseeing budgets and timelines. Directors of Land Development play a key role in identifying development opportunities, conducting due diligence, and guiding projects from concept through construction. Their work is crucial to transforming raw land into usable, profitable properties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director land development?

To thrive as a Director of Land Development, you need a solid background in civil engineering, urban planning, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and extensive experience in land development projects. Familiarity with project management tools, CAD software, GIS systems, and applicable regulatory processes is typically required. Leadership, negotiation, and strong communication skills are essential for managing cross-functional teams and engaging with stakeholders. These competencies ensure successful project delivery, regulatory compliance, and the ability to drive development initiatives from concept to completion.

What are some common challenges faced by a director land development, and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Land Development often encounters challenges such as navigating complex regulatory approvals, managing multidisciplinary teams, and balancing project timelines with budget constraints. Effective communication with stakeholders, including municipal officials, engineers, and community members, is key to overcoming these hurdles. Staying proactive with regulatory changes and fostering strong relationships within and outside the organization can help streamline processes and ensure project success.

What is the difference between Director Land Development vs Land Development Manager?

AspectDirector Land DevelopmentLand Development Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects, strategic planning, and team leadershipManages individual projects, coordinates with teams, and ensures project completion
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering, urban planning, or related field; often a professional licenseBachelor's degree; relevant experience in land development
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level office, site visits, stakeholder meetingsOffice-based with site visits and project coordination
Industry UsageCommonly used in large firms and corporate settingsWidely used across various companies for project management roles

The main difference between a Director Land Development and a Land Development Manager lies in scope and seniority. The director focuses on strategic oversight and leadership across multiple projects, while the manager handles day-to-day project execution. Both roles require relevant credentials and industry experience, but the director typically has a broader, more strategic focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Director Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Director Land Development jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Director Land Development job openings:

Director Land Development jobs near you

Associate Director - Land Development

Chicago, IL

Atwell, LLC
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Atwell, LLCexternal

$120K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

Atwell, LLC is a bold leader in the consulting, engineering, and construction services industry, delivering a broad range of creative solutions to clients in the real estate & land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award-winning project portfolio. Atwell is a privately owned company, with 2,000+ passionate team members across 75+ locations and growing!

Atwell, LLC is a proud recipient of the following 2025 awards:

  • Ten consecutive years in a row as a "Best Place to Work" by Zweig Group (#11)
  • Recognized as #70 in the ENR Top 500 Design Firms, ranked in every region
  • Recognized in Crain's "Fast 50" as one of the fastest-growing companies (#14)
  • Recognized as the 2025 ENR Design Firm of the year for the Southeastern US

As an Associate Director at Atwell, you will work with a dynamic and growing multi-disciplinary firm on land development projects. Your responsibilities will encompass actively contributing to our firm's growth while providing leadership and management to the team.

Establish Business Objectives:

  • Collaborate with leadership to set clear business objectives.
  • Develop and present annual business plans to the VP/Regional Leader.
  • Work with department heads to establish department-specific goals.
  • Support and manage business development activities and internal BD training.

Establish Team Plan:

  • Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Strategically develop future business opportunities and maintain relationships with current and potential clients.
  • Drive revenue goals and monitor team utilization, invoice ratio, effort margin, and profitability.
  • Oversee project management, including AR collections, contract value vs. effort, project profitability, change order management, and monthly invoicing.
  • Manage risks through contract and proposal review and licensing compliance.
  • Supervise invoices and subcontractors as needed.

Establish Product Objectives:

  • Ensure adherence to company and service sector standards.
  • Promote the use of company templates and ensure their functionality.
  • Manage survey equipment and fleet to ensure operational excellence.
  • Recommend and justify technology improvements.
  • Ensure a consistent and repeatable process for deliverables.

Communicate with Employees:

  • Maintain an Open Door Policy for effective communication.
  • Share company objectives, reports, and data with the team.
  • Facilitate employee development through performance management, training, and mentorship.

Manage Staff:

  • Supervise and lead the team, including recruitment, interviews, hiring, onboarding, training, performance reviews, and disciplinary actions (up to and including termination).
  • Collaborate with Human Resources on staffing needs, onboarding, workers' compensation, ADA accommodations, performance issues, and offboarding.

Responsible for Health & Safety:

  • Understand and enforce safety protocols related to onboarding, training, and reporting.
  • Promote a culture of safety awareness within the team.
  • Ensure team engagement, direction, and training on safety aspects and requirements of projects.

Maintain Professional Knowledge:

  • Attend workshops and relevant educational events.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and best practices through professional publications.
  • Build and maintain personal and professional networks.
  • Participate in professional societies and trade associations.

 Promote Internal Communication:

  • Encourage dialogue and collaboration within project teams and across market sectors.
  • Foster a culture of open and effective communication throughout the organization.

Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering from an EAC/ABET Accredited University
  • PE Licensure Required
  • 8+ years of experience
  • Relevant work experience in Illinois preferred. 
  •  AutoCAD Civil 3D experience 

Disclaimer 

While AI tools may support your application process, this role is built on human talent. Your judgment, experience, and character matter most, so we encourage you to showcase what makes you uniquely you.

Atwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from any 3rd party agencies. No fee will be paid to 3rd parties who submit unsolicited resumes to any Atwell employee. Resumes from approved vendors must be specifically requested by Atwell and approved by the Atwell Talent Acquisition Team.

#LI-LG1

Pay Range
$120,000—$180,000 USD

Atwell Benefits: To attract and retain the best professionals in the industry, we aim to provide an excellent working environment and a progressive benefits program designed to support your personal and professional needs.

Work/Life:

  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible work schedules are available for some positions
  • Tenure Awards — Travel Vouchers to see the world based on your travel preferences

Compensation:

  • Competitive Compensation packages 
  • Annual bonuses, spot bonuses and peer recognition awards
  • 401K match - 1:1 up to 4% of compensation 
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Student Loan Repayment 
  • Paid Licensing / Certification Fees and Renewals
  • Financial Rewards for Obtaining Licensure
  • Employee Referrals 
  • Annual Wellness Reimbursement for anything wellness related (Gym memberships, fitness tracker, home gym equipment, etc.)
  • Dependent Care Match

'Atwell'ness:

  • Medical (BC/BS), Dental (Delta), and Vision (VSP)
  • Family Planning & IVF Benefits
  • Pet Insurance
  • Health Savings Account & Flex Spending Account options
  • Employer paid LTD, STD, and life insurance
  • Metlife Supplemental Benefits covering accident, hospitalization, and critical illness
  • Member Assistance Program (MAP) with complimentary counseling sessions, legal benefits, financial consultations, and work/life referral services

What Atwell employees say

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