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Project Development Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Development Director position is responsible for all aspects of taking a project from initial acquisition analysis and potential purchase through municipal entitlements, design team coordination ...

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Project Development Director information

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$62.5K

$142.1K

$222.5K

How much do project development director jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for project development director in the United States is $142,075.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,000.00 and $150,000.00 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 cities are hiring for Project Development Director jobs? Cities with the most Project Development Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Development jobs? The most popular types of Project Development jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Project Development Director jobs? The top employers for Project Development Director jobs are:
What states have the most Project Development Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Project Development Director jobs include:

Sr. Director - Project Development

Vistra Energy

Irving, TX • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Vistra rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

Serve as Senior Director for development of natural gas-fired generation projects, including greenfield, brownfield conversions, and repowering opportunities
Direct due diligence across permitting, site feasibility, environmental, technical, and community engagement workstreams
Coordinate with internal teams and external consultants and stakeholders on interconnection, regulatory, engineering, legal, procurement, as needed to ensure effective execution of projects

Job Description

Key Accountabilities

Execute development strategy for gas generation assets, including new builds, repowers, and coal to gas conversions
Be accountable, for all related aspects of project development for an assigned site, including, customer and utility relations, permitting, land acquisition, general stakeholder relations, project schedule, etc.
Work closely with internal and external resources on project transactions.
Responsible for budget and driving profitability of utility-scale projects on assigned sites

Education, Experience & Skill Requirements

Bachelor's degree (engineering) is preferred but experience gained through college degree programs and/or certifications is applicable to below skills
10+ years of progressive experience in power project development, with significant experience in natural gas generation
Proven track record of leading large-scale, complex infrastructure projects ($500MM+)
Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills
Strong organizational, analytical, project, process, and budgeting skills

Key Metrics

Develop and deliver large-scale power infrastructure projects to successful close
Work with internal Business Development, Construction and Operations teams on executing efficient "hand-offs" throughout the Development lifecycle

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-ND1

Job Family

Corp Dev & Planning

Company

Vistra Corporate Services Company

Locations

Irving, TexasTexas
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.


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