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Project Development Director Jobs in Cornelia, GA

The SPM may also be responsible for directing and mentoring other Project Managers, field ... development objectives and reporting back to the VP of Field Operations on progress * Provide ...

The SPM may also be responsible for directing and mentoring other Project Managers, field ... development objectives and reporting back to the VP of Field Operations on progress * Provide ...

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Project Development Director information

See Cornelia, GA salary details

$53.4K

$121.3K

$189.9K

How much do project development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for project development director in Cornelia, GA is $121,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,700.00 and $128,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a project director higher than a project manager?

A Project Development Director typically holds a higher-level leadership role than a Project Manager, overseeing multiple projects or programs and setting strategic direction. Project Managers focus on planning, executing, and closing individual projects, often reporting to directors or executives. The hierarchy can vary by organization, but generally, the director has broader responsibilities and authority.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Project Development Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Development Director, you need expertise in project management, business development, strategic planning, and a relevant degree—often in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Asana), budgeting tools, and certifications such as PMP or PRINCE2 are highly advantageous. Leadership, negotiation, and strong interpersonal communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring project success, stakeholder alignment, and effective delivery of organizational goals.

What does a director of project development do?

A project development director oversees the planning, execution, and completion of projects, ensuring they meet objectives, budgets, and deadlines. They coordinate teams, manage resources, and communicate with stakeholders to drive project success, often using project management tools and methodologies.

What are some common challenges faced by a Project Development Director when managing cross-functional teams?

Project Development Directors often work with diverse teams from various departments such as engineering, finance, marketing, and legal. One common challenge is aligning different priorities and communication styles to ensure everyone is working towards the same project goals. Additionally, balancing stakeholder expectations while managing tight deadlines and budget constraints can require strong negotiation and problem-solving skills. Successful Project Development Directors foster collaboration, set clear objectives, and proactively address potential conflicts to keep projects on track.

How much does a project director earn?

A project development director typically earns between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on industry, experience, and location. Senior directors or those in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

Project Development Directors and experienced project managers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with advanced certifications like PMP and in industries such as construction, IT, or engineering. Salary levels depend on factors like location, years of experience, and company size, with senior roles often exceeding this threshold.

What does a Project Development Director do?

A Project Development Director oversees the planning, execution, and completion of major projects within an organization. Their responsibilities include identifying project opportunities, managing budgets, coordinating teams, and ensuring projects align with organizational goals. They often serve as the main point of contact for stakeholders and are responsible for mitigating risks and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope. Effective leadership, strategic planning, and strong communication skills are essential for success in this role.

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

AspectProject Development DirectorProject Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects, strategic planning, and long-term development initiativesManages individual projects, coordinates teams, and ensures project deliverables
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in relevant fields, extensive experience in project planning and leadershipBachelor's degree, PMP or similar certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level, strategic meetings, cross-department collaborationOn-site or remote project teams, day-to-day project oversight

The Project Development Director focuses on strategic, high-level planning and oversees multiple projects, while the Project Manager handles the execution and daily management of individual projects. Both roles require strong leadership and industry knowledge, but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities near Cornelia, GA are hiring for Project Development Director jobs? Cities near Cornelia, GA with the most Project Development Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Project Development Director job openings in Cornelia, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,286 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Project Director - Land Development

LJA Engineering

Winder, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


LJA Engineering rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

WHAT LJA HAS TO OFFER
LJA is offering an exciting opportunity that will allow you to reach your full career potential. The structure of our organization is designed to amplify your capabilities while gaining the benefits of being an employee-owner. What truly sets this opportunity apart is the chance to collaborate every day with dedicated, skilled, and supportive leaders. Whether you are in the office, in the field, or behind the scenes, working at LJA gives you the chance to grow through hands-on experience and exposure to a broad range of clients and services.
WHAT MAKES LJA DIFFERENT
At LJA, our employee-owners take pride in their work and their workplace. We're guided by leaders who foster a culture of respect, collaboration and a shared vision of success. Our difference is evident in the experiences and opportunities we provide:
  • Employee-owned. Client-focused
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Consistently ranked as a Top Workplace
  • Internal recruitment team, in-house training, and a marketing department specific to our industry
  • We celebrate flexibility, allowing every team and office to lead with their proven approach
  • Our culture champions continuous learning and personal growth
  • We believe success comes through constant evolution and communication
  • We are passionate about having fun and making money, all while creating impact

POSITION OVERVIEW: As a Project Director at LJA Land Development, you will be responsible for leading the sales and execution activities for land development projects in the Greater Denver region. You'll oversee project managers in their daily operations, focusing on business development, quality assurance, and problem resolution.
A TYPICAL DAY MIGHT INCLUDE:
  • Building relationships and growing business in residential, commercial, and industrial land development sectors.
  • Leading business development efforts by marketing to existing clients and identifying new opportunities.
  • Supporting land development entitlement activities and serving as a trusted advisor to clients.
  • Assisting in technical business development efforts such as qualification statements and presentations.
  • Reviewing and approving scopes, budgets, and project schedules.
  • Managing team performance and providing leadership across assigned projects.
  • Participating in quarterly operations meetings with company leadership.
  • Engaging in professional associations and community organizations.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Georgia.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 15+ years of experience in land development entitlement and engineering.
  • 3+ years of experience as a practice leader and business developer in the Georgia market.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

IDEALLY, YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE:
  • Demonstrated success in business development and client relationship management.
  • Experience mentoring and developing project managers.
  • Proven leadership in managing large-scale, complex land development projects

LEVEL UP WITH LJA
At LJA, we're 100% employee-owned. This drives results, rewards ambition and supports long-term success for every team member. With almost 100 locations and 3,000+ employee-owners (and growing), we're building something big! We want you to be part of it. Your future grows here.
  • Flexible Work Options: Schedules to help you balance life and work.
  • Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and a full office closure between Christmas and New Year's.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple plan options for health, dental, and pets. Along with mental health support.
  • Family Support: Paid maternity and parental leave to help you focus on what matters most.
  • Education Support: Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses provided by our Learning and Development team.
  • Referral Bonuses: Know great talent? Get rewarded for helping us grow.
  • Community Impact: Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives.
  • Professional Development: Memberships to industry organizations to keep you connected and growing.
  • Career Growth: Great internal mobility opportunities to advance your career.
  • Fun Culture: LJA social events, employee sports teams, bring your kid to work day, etc.

To Executive Search Firms & Staffing Agencies: LJA Engineering, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes from any agencies that have not signed a service agreement. All unsolicited resumes will be considered LJA's property. This includes resumes submitted directly to hiring managers without contacting LJA's Human Resources Talent Department.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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