Economic Development Project Manager Jobs in Ocala, FL

Job Summary/Overview

The Land Development Project Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing crucial phases of our land development projects, from initial due diligence through final project closeout. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the land development lifecycle, including site feasibility, design, permitting, and construction. This role is crucial for ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following statements describe the principal functions of this position and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements.  Individuals may be expected to perform other duties as assigned, including working in different areas to cover absences or balance the workload.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

• Coordinate with civil engineers, surveyors, and other consultants to facilitate timely agency submittals of applications, clearances and project plans. Prepare and submit all required documentation for agency review and approval.
• Actively manage the permit application and approval process, working directly with city and county staff to resolve any issues and expedite approvals.
• Oversee project closeout activities, including but not limited to – securing final inspections, obtaining clearance documentation from permitting agencies, requesting and securing walk-thru booklets from geotechnical engineers.
• Compile and electronically transmit final project documentation for Transfer and Utility Packages to appropriate recipients. Collaborate with related Association Maintenance Entity, Sales and Construction Departments to ensure a smooth transition of the project from the land development phase to Association maintenance take-over, homebuilding and lot sales.
• Develop and manage project budgets, track expenditures, and provide regular financial reports to stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all project stakeholders, including internal teams, external consultants, government officials, and contractors.
• Proactively identify and mitigate potential project risks and issues.
• Provide high-level planning assistance to senior management, including expert time management, complex calendar management, meeting coordination, and efficient travel logistics.
• Review contracts and revise contracts as necessary. 
• Establish and manage relationships with external consultants, including, but not limited to – Engineers, Utilities, Land Planners, Surveyors, Geotechnical Engineers, Landscape Architects, and Legal Counsel. Ensure all third-party services are delivered on time and within budget.
• Ensure all projects are in full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including environmental, zoning, and building codes.
• Prepare and maintain multiple project schedules in Microsoft Project, provide weekly project reports to department personnel, on project status, budget vs. actuals, project schedule variances and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Proactively identify and resolve complex project issues, such as unforeseen site conditions, design conflicts, or regulatory hurdles, with minimal impact on the project timeline and budget.
• Create or update maps in Bluebeam as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned in alignment with organizational needs.

Qualifications (Education, Experience, Technical Skills)

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Real Estate, or a related field preferred
• Minimum of 4 years of progressive industry experience required
• In-depth knowledge of zoning, permitting, and land use regulations required

Skills and Knowledge:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Excel and MS Project, is essential.
• General knowledge of the construction process is preferred.
• Exceptional organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple complex situations simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam is preferred, or a strong willingness and aptitude to learn this program.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend English fluently, with strong verbal and written communication abilities.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Honesty and integrity
• Self-starter
• Inquisitive, detail-oriented
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion