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Land Developer Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Staff Accountant

Peachtree Corners, GA · On-site

$52K - $68K/yr

McKinley Homes LLC, a premier land developer and builder based in Peachtree Corners, Metro Atlanta, GA, specializes in real estate development and vertical construction. As a quickly growing company ...

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Land Developer information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$15

$36

$61

How much do land developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for land developer in Atlanta, GA is $36.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $57.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Land Developer vs Land Planner?

AspectLand DeveloperLand Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, civil engineering, or related field; often some experience in real estate or developmentBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentReal estate development projects, construction sites, development officesGovernment agencies, planning departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageReal estate development companies, construction firms, private investorsMunicipalities, government agencies, urban planning firms

While both roles involve land use and development, a Land Developer focuses on acquiring, financing, and managing land projects for development, often working on the commercial or residential scale. A Land Planner primarily works on designing and planning land use in accordance with regulations and community needs, often within government or consulting settings. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the land development industry.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, investment bankers, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and strong industry networks, with some earning through bonuses, profit sharing, or business ownership.

What is the job of a land developer?

A land developer is responsible for acquiring, planning, and developing land for construction or sale. They coordinate with engineers, architects, and government agencies to ensure projects meet zoning laws and environmental regulations, often overseeing the entire development process from site selection to project completion.

What are some common challenges a Land Developer faces when coordinating with local government agencies?

Land Developers often encounter challenges navigating complex zoning laws, securing permits, and meeting environmental regulations. These processes can be time-consuming and require close collaboration with city planners, engineers, and legal experts to ensure compliance. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential to address unexpected issues or delays, making strong negotiation and relationship-building skills valuable assets in this role.

Is there money in land development?

Land development can be financially rewarding for professionals such as land developers, especially when projects are successfully planned and executed. Income varies based on experience, project size, location, and market conditions, with opportunities for profit through property sales, leasing, or infrastructure improvements.

What does a land developer do?

A land developer is responsible for transforming raw land into usable real estate, such as residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, or industrial parks. This involves acquiring land, securing government approvals and permits, planning infrastructure like roads and utilities, and overseeing construction. Land developers work closely with architects, engineers, government officials, and contractors to ensure the project meets all zoning, environmental, and community requirements. Their goal is to maximize the value and utility of the land while complying with regulations and market demands.

What is the highest paid job in property?

In property development, senior roles such as Real Estate Development Directors or Vice Presidents typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, strong negotiation skills, and often advanced degrees or certifications in real estate or urban planning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Land Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Land Developer, you need a solid understanding of land use planning, real estate markets, zoning laws, and often a degree in civil engineering, urban planning, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software, GIS mapping tools, and knowledge of permitting processes are typically required. Strong negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills help build consensus among stakeholders and navigate complex regulatory environments. These skills ensure projects are completed efficiently, profitably, and in compliance with legal and community standards.
Infographic showing various Land Developer job openings in Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,721 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Director of Land Entitlements

Metric Geo

Lawrenceville, GA • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Director of Land Entitlements

Top Residential Developer / Homebuilder

Gwinnett County, GA


Position Overview

A top national homebuilder is seeking a Director of Land Entitlements to lead the entitlement process for residential communities throughout the Greater Atlanta market, with a focus on Gwinnett County and surrounding areas. This individual will oversee the entitlement strategy for new land acquisitions, manage complex development approvals, and work closely with internal teams, municipalities, consultants, and land sellers to bring projects from acquisition through final approvals.


This is a highly visible leadership role that plays a critical part in growing the company's land pipeline and delivering successful residential communities.


Key Responsibilities


  • Lead all entitlement activities for new residential land acquisitions from due diligence through final approvals.
  • Develop and execute entitlement strategies for single-family and master-planned communities.
  • Manage rezoning, annexation, comprehensive plan amendments, variances, special use permits, and subdivision approvals.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with local municipalities, planning departments, county officials, engineers, attorneys, and consultants throughout Gwinnett County and the Greater Atlanta market.
  • Coordinate with Land Acquisition, Land Development, Legal, Finance, and Construction teams to ensure projects progress on schedule.
  • Oversee engineering consultants, environmental consultants, surveyors, traffic engineers, and land-use attorneys.
  • Present entitlement applications before planning commissions, zoning boards, city councils, and county commissioners.
  • Identify entitlement risks early and develop solutions to keep projects moving forward.
  • Track project schedules, budgets, and critical milestones throughout the approval process.
  • Provide regular updates to executive leadership regarding project status, risks, and timelines.
  • Support underwriting efforts by evaluating entitlement feasibility during land acquisition due diligence.
  • Ensure all projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Construction Management, Real Estate, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of residential land entitlement, land development, or land planning experience.
  • Experience with a production homebuilder or residential land developer is strongly preferred.
  • Proven experience obtaining residential entitlements throughout Georgia, ideally within Gwinnett County or the Greater Atlanta market.
  • Strong knowledge of zoning regulations, comprehensive plans, development ordinances, and permitting processes.
  • Experience managing consultants, engineers, attorneys, and municipal relationships.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation abilities.


Preferred Experience

  • Residential subdivision development.
  • Master-planned community entitlements.
  • Due diligence and feasibility analysis.
  • Land acquisition support.
  • Budget management and entitlement scheduling.
  • Experience working with local governments across Metro Atlanta.