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Project Development Director Jobs in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

As the Director, SAP Development, you will lead and manage the SAP development team, ensuring the ... Design, architect and oversee all SAP development activities for multiple project initiatives and ...

Director of Development

Anaheim, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $125K/yr

... projects, and campaigns. Founded in 1919, Braille Institute of America (BIA) is one of the oldest ... The Director of Development - Orange County serves as the organization's lead fundraiser and ...

Project Manager | Development

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Direct, hands-on CEQA experience required; candidates should already have led projects through the ... Experience with development related software (e.g., Smart Sheet, Microsoft Project, and/or Bluebeam ...

Director of Development

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$110 - $125/hr

... projects, and campaigns. Founded in 1919, Braille Institute of America (BIA) is one of the oldest ... JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Job Summary The Director of Development - Orange County serves as ...

Director of Development

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

... projects, and campaigns. Founded in 1919, Braille Institute of America (BIA) is one of the oldest ... The Director of Development - Orange County serves as the organization's lead fundraiser and ...

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Project Development Director information

See Rancho Santa Margarita, CA salary details

$67.7K

$153.8K

$240.9K

How much do project development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for project development director in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is $153,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,800.00 and $162,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, CA are hiring for Project Development Director jobs?

Cities near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA with the most Project Development Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Project Development Director job openings in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,827 per year, or $74 per hour.

Director of Project Development CWD

C.W. Driver

Anaheim, CA

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

About Us:

C.W. Driver Companies is a premier builder serving California since 1919, specializing in complex and technically challenging projects across multiple sectors. With a strong foundation in innovation, collaboration, and integrity, we are committed to delivering exceptional construction services. Our legacy is built on quality craftsmanship and long-standing client relationships.


Position Summary:

C.W. Driver Companies is seeking an experienced Director of Project Development to lead business development, strategic positioning, and preconstruction efforts across assigned markets. This role is responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities, cultivating key industry relationships, and positioning C.W. Driver for successful project pursuits.

The Director of Project Development serves as a key connection between clients, design partners, and internal preconstruction and operations teams. This role champions design-assist, design-build, alternate delivery methods, and design management services while helping translate client objectives into successful project strategies and outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Identify and pursue new project opportunities through market research, strategic positioning, networking, and relationship development with owners, developers, architects, engineers, and other industry partners.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships within assigned markets, serving as a trusted resource to clients and industry partners while maintaining consistent engagement with key accounts.
  • Collaborate with leadership to develop and execute annual business development plans, identify priority markets and clients, and make informed go/no-go recommendations.
  • Lead pursuit strategies for proposals and presentations, including positioning project teams, developing winning approaches, reviewing proposal content, coaching interview teams, and gathering client feedback.
  • Champion alternative delivery methods, including design-build, design-assist, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), and Public-Private Partnerships, and develop technical solutions that differentiate C.W. Driver in the marketplace.
  • Lead and coordinate preconstruction and design management activities, partnering with Estimating, BIM, Scheduling, Project Planning, and Operations to align constructability, logistics, value management, and project objectives.
  • Facilitate the selection and coordination of architects, engineers, designers, and specialty consultants for design-build and collaborative project pursuits.
  • Work with clients and design teams to translate project goals, programming requirements, and financial objectives into practical design and construction solutions.
  • Support conceptual estimating, scheduling, value engineering, life-cycle cost analysis, budgeting, and other preconstruction activities throughout the design phase.
  • Leverage technology, including BIM and integrated delivery tools, to improve project performance, enhance collaboration, and differentiate C.W. Driver from competitors.
  • Ensure successful transition and handoff of awarded projects from business development and preconstruction to construction teams.
  • Represent C.W. Driver at industry events, conferences, trade shows, and client engagements to strengthen the company's brand and expand market opportunities.
  • Collaborate on public relations, marketing, and communication strategies that strengthen C.W. Driver's presence within targeted markets.