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Project Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Yang Management, Inc.

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Planning & Development Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$145K - $158K/yr

Manages, oversees and coordinates all facets of pre-construction, project development, bid/award, and project close-out phase of all assigned projects * Works with the design team to focus on the ...

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All JobsProject Development JobsProject Development Jobs in California

Project Development information

See California salary details

$42.4K

$93.3K

$140.1K

How much do project development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for project development in California is $93,303.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Project Development vs Project Management?

AspectProject DevelopmentProject Management
Primary FocusPlanning and creating project concepts, designs, and initial phasesExecuting, monitoring, and closing projects to meet objectives
Required SkillsDesign, technical knowledge, planningLeadership, organization, communication
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, engineering, R&DProject teams, client interactions, coordination
CertificationsDepends on industry; often technical or design certificationsPMP, CAPM, or similar project management certifications

While project development focuses on creating and designing project concepts, project management involves overseeing the execution and delivery of those projects. Both roles are essential and often collaborate closely, but they emphasize different stages of the project lifecycle.

What does a project developer do?

A project developer is responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing projects from inception to completion. They analyze project requirements, secure necessary permits, coordinate with stakeholders, and ensure projects meet deadlines and budgets, often using tools like project management software. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Project Development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Project Development often encounter challenges such as aligning diverse stakeholder interests, managing shifting project requirements, and ensuring timely resource allocation. These obstacles can be addressed by maintaining clear communication channels, implementing regular project check-ins, and utilizing effective project management tools. Building strong relationships across departments and fostering a transparent team culture also help in navigating complex project landscapes and achieving successful outcomes.

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

A successful career in Project Development requires strong project management skills, analytical abilities, and a relevant degree such as business, engineering, or construction management. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Asana), budgeting tools, and sometimes certifications like PMP or Prince2 are highly valued. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills enable professionals to coordinate teams and drive projects forward. These competencies are crucial for ensuring projects are completed on time, within scope, and to stakeholder satisfaction.

What is the highest paying project management job?

Senior executive roles such as Program Manager, Portfolio Manager, or Director of Project Management typically have the highest salaries in project management, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced certifications like PMP or PgMP, and strong leadership skills, especially in industries like technology, engineering, or construction.

What is project development work?

Project development work involves planning, designing, and organizing projects to meet specific goals within set timelines and budgets. It includes tasks such as feasibility analysis, resource allocation, and coordinating teams, often requiring skills in project management tools and methodologies like Agile or Waterfall.

What is project development?

Project development is the process of planning, organizing, and managing resources to bring a specific project from an initial idea to successful completion. This involves defining project goals, creating detailed plans, securing funding, coordinating teams, and monitoring progress throughout the project lifecycle. Effective project development ensures that objectives are met on time, within budget, and to the desired quality standards. Professionals in this field often work in industries such as construction, energy, technology, and nonprofit sectors.

What qualifications do I need to be a project coordinator?

To be a project coordinator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as business, management, or engineering. Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills are essential, along with experience using project management tools like Microsoft Project or Asana. Certifications such as CAPM or PMP can enhance job prospects but are not always required.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Development jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Project Development jobs in California? For Project Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Project Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Project Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Project Development job openings:
Project Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,303 per year, or $44.9 per hour.
Development Manager - Project Development (West)

Development Manager - Project Development (West)

TXU Energy

Moss Landing, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

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

This role serves as Development Manager for power generation projects of various technologies - simple and combined cycle gas turbines, utility scale solar, and energy storage projects or other power development projects in the West and regulated power markets. The successful candidate will have lead responsibility for overseeing all project development activities through a transition to construction including supporting real estate negotiations, securing land use, special use and environmental permitting approvals, interfacing with Local and State officials, and overseeing and advancing projects through the interconnection process. Additionally, this role coordinates with internal teams and external consultants and stakeholders on interconnection, power marketing, engineering, legal, procurement, as needed to ensure effective execution of projects. The Development Manager will be responsible for managing schedule and budget and reporting to Vistra management.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities
Execute project development strategy in the region.
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 with origination team to cultivate customer relationships in the region and support offtake negotiations.
Support development of regional growth strategies.
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, and Skill Requirements
5+ years project development experience. Experience in development in the West and regulated territories is strongly preferred
General business knowledge and acumen, with broad-based knowledge of the development processes
Strong written and oral communication; proven ability to negotiate and persuade others
Advanced Microsoft office capabilities (PowerPoint, Word and Excel)
Ability to work with and manage confidential information
Strong organizational, analytical, project, process, and budgeting skills
High school diploma or equivalent
Experience gained through college degree programs and/or certifications is applicable to above skills
Key Metrics
Develop and deliver commercial and utility scale power generation projects to successful close
Work with internal Construction and Operations teams on executing efficient "hand-offs" throughout the Development lifecycle

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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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