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Project Development Director Jobs in Seattle, WA

New Horizons

Director of Development

Seattle, WA · On-site

$96K - $110K/yr

The Director of Development will be integral in building and maintaining donor relationships, and may work offsite for projects, meetings, and other outreach efforts. New Horizons is an equal ...

New Horizons

Director of Development

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

The Director of Development will be integral in building and maintaining donor relationships, and may work offsite for projects, meetings, and other outreach efforts. New Horizons is an equal ...

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Project Development Director information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$71.2K

$161.8K

$253.4K

How much do project development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for project development director in Seattle, WA is $161,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,400.00 and $170,800.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Project Development jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Project Development jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Project Development Director jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Project Development Director job openings:
Project Development Director jobs near you
Development Director (Contractor)

Development Director (Contractor)

Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association

Seattle, WA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $40,000.

Development Director (Contractor)

Contract Duration: December 2025 April 2026
Hours: 1520 hours/week
Compensation: $40,000$50,000 total contract
Location: On-site/in-person in Delridge, Seattle
Reports to: Executive Director

About DNDA

Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association (DNDA) integrates art, nature, and neighborhood to build and sustain a dynamic Delridge community where all people thrive. From stewarding the Youngstown Cultural Arts Center and Delridge Wetlands to advancing affordable housing, arts, and environmental education, DNDA stands as a model for community-led, place-based development in Southwest Seattle.

Position Summary

DNDA seeks an experienced, well-networked Development Director (Contractor) to serve as the organizations day-to-day fundraising implementor and strategist during a pivotal growth phase.
This role will strengthen DNDAs development systems, deepen relationships with funders, and prepare the organization for long-term sustainability through diversified fundraising and donor engagement strategies.

The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on someone who can connect with community, secure resources, and move projects forward with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Donor Engagement

  • Lead implementation of DNDAs fundraising and cultivation strategies, including individual giving, sponsorships, and foundation outreach.
  • Manage donor communications, acknowledgments, and cultivation activities.
  • Support preparation and follow-up for donor meetings and events, including DNDAs annual fundraiser and donor cultivation events.
  • Leverage personal and professional networks to open doors to corporate, philanthropic, and public funding partners.

Development Systems & Operations

  • Maintain and strengthen use of DNDAs CRM (Salesforce) for donor tracking, reporting, and stewardship.
  • Manage development communications tools (Mailchimp, Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint).
  • Create and maintain clear systems for donor prospecting, stewardship, and reporting.

Collaboration & Capacity Building

  • Work closely with DNDAs Executive Director, Board, and Development staff to cultivate a fundraising culture across the organization.
  • Provide coaching and support to staff in donor cultivation and stewardship.
  • Partner with DNDA leadership to align fundraising activities with strategic goals.

Qualifications (Essential / Non-Negotiables)


  • Local presence: Must work on-site and in person in the Delridge/Southwest Seattle community.

  • Experience: Minimum 10 years of proven success in nonprofit development and fundraising, including corporate sponsorships, major gifts, and grants.

  • Equity: Demonstrated experience working with and for under-served demographics and historically underinvested communities.

  • Network: Strong, established relationships across corporate, philanthropic, and public sectors in the Puget Sound region.

  • Independence: Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities with limited supervision.

  • Negotiation: Strong ability to advocate and negotiate on behalf of the organization.

  • Technical proficiency: Salesforce, Mailchimp, Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint.

Preferred Qualifications


  • Deep connection to the Delridge neighborhood or lived experience within the community.
  • Background in community development, arts, environment, or affordable housing.
  • Experience managing small teams or coaching emerging fundraisers.
  • Creative, resourceful, and comfortable working in evolving environments.
  • Business-minded and data-driven with a heart for community impact.

Cultural Fit

DNDAs team is collaborative, creative, and community-rooted.
Were looking for someone who is:

  • Resourceful, relational, and ready to roll up their sleeves.
  • Business-oriented yet deeply committed to community values.
  • Grounded, playful, and open to ambiguity.
  • Passionate about DNDAs mission and the people we serve.

Timeline


  • December 2025: Contract finalized and onboarding begins.

  • January 2025: Start date.

  • April 2025: Contract conclusion (with possible extention)