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Project Development Director Jobs in Lafayette, IN

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 Lafayette, IN salary details

$60.1K

$136.7K

$214.1K

How much do project development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for project development director in Lafayette, IN is $136,695.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,500.00 and $144,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Project Development jobs in Lafayette, IN?

The most popular types of Project Development jobs in Lafayette, IN are:

What cities near Lafayette, IN are hiring for Project Development Director jobs?

Cities near Lafayette, IN with the most Project Development Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Project Development Director job openings in Lafayette, IN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,695 per year, or $65.7 per hour.

Senior Development Officer or Development Officer, College of Engineering

Purdue Research Foundation

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Senior Development Officer or Development Officer, College of Engineering
Department: Major Gifts
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Purdue for Life Foundation
Description
Working for the Purdue For Life Foundation offers a unique opportunity to be part of an organization dedicated to empowering Purdue University alumni and fostering a lifelong connection to the institution. By joining our team, you'll have the chance to contribute to a mission that supports educational initiatives, scholarships, and programs that positively impact the lives of Purdue students and graduates. The Foundation's commitment to education and community engagement provides a fulfilling work environment where you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the broader community. Additionally, you'll have access to a network of passionate colleagues and the resources needed to drive positive change, making the Purdue For Life Foundation an inspiring and rewarding place to build your career.
As part of the College of Engineering development team, you will play a vital role in advancing Purdue's world-class innovation and impact. This is a chance to connect passionate donors with transformative projects that shape the future of engineering education and research. You'll work alongside a collaborative, mission-driven team that values initiative, creativity, and relationship building-while seeing the tangible results of your efforts in the lives of students and the success of the University. Your next giant leap starts here!
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute a plan to bring donors to the College of Engineering and the University through active use of the development process.
  • Set specific objectives to effectively advance toward solicitation of major gifts in accordance with Purdue for Life Foundation's current fundraiser metric system.
  • In consultation with the Executive Director, unit heads, and the Vice President for Development, identify and establish personal contact with current and prospective major gift donors whose interest and financial capacity have the greatest likelihood of meeting the unit and University fundraising goals.
  • Frequent travel and/or evening and weekend duties are required.
  • Collaborate with appropriate development and department staff to develop prospect strategies and build relationships.
  • Set specific goals and objectives to effectively advance toward solicitation of annual and major gifts.
  • Host, co-host and/or attend development-related receptions and other donor events locally and regionally.
  • Become familiar with and understand key initiatives of the various units comprising the College of Engineering.
  • Report regularly on the progress toward annual goals and action plans.
  • Become adept at using a Salesforce CRM in support of annual and major gift activities.
  • Share information with other pertinent development officers in a timely manner to maintain strong collegial relationships.
  • All other duties as assigned, including but not limited to serving as a liaison for a unit head.
  • Ability to work onsite in West Lafayette, Indiana up to 3 days per week.

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
  • Public speaking skills are essential.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills essential, including the ability to communicate well in writing.
  • Must be able to interact with stakeholders from a wide range of professional and cultural backgrounds.
  • Ability to use good judgment, maintain confidentiality and represent the University with tact and diplomacy at all times.
  • Ability to articulate the mission of Purdue University as needed.
  • Possess initiative and the ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team.
  • Excellent relationship building skills, organizational skills and ability to handle multiple projects.
  • Must be able to solicit gifts in person.
  • Desire to continuously improve professional competency through participation in professional development opportunities.
  • Basic computer skills are essential.
  • Knowledge of philanthropy and fundraising principles are desired.

Required Education, Experience and Benefits Summary
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Development Officer- Minimum of 2 years relevant work experience required. Experience in development including solicitation of gifts and/or related work experience (e.g., public relations, marketing/sales) with demonstrated success is a plus but not required.
  • Senior Development Officer- Minimum of 3 years experience in development, fundraising or alumni relations required. Experience in higher education preferred.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license required.

Job Level: Professional 4 / Professional 5
Benefits Summary for eligible employees:
  • 10 paid holidays per year.
  • Accrue up to 22 vacation days a year.
  • Traditional pre-tax 403(b) and Roth retirement plans available.
  • 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan and immediate vesting.
  • Health Savings Account- earn up to $700 annually towards medical expenses.
  • Employer funded Preventative Dental and Vision insurance.
  • Tuition discounts on eligible programs at Purdue University and Purdue Global for qualified employees, spouses, and dependents.