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Project Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Introlinx

Development Project Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience in successfully managing cross functional teams developing software development projects. They must have a thorough understanding of the software development ...

AppleOne

Development Project Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$150K/yr

The Development Project Manager will work closely with internal leadership, consultants, vendors, contractors, and external stakeholders to keep development projects organized, compliant, and aligned ...

Onigilly Inc

Development Project Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

As our Development Project Manager, you'll be at the forefront of this exciting journey, guiding our food services projects to success. You'll oversee every detail, ensuring our onigiri reaches more ...

Onigilly Inc

Development Project Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$130K/yr

As our Development Project Manager, you'll be at the forefront of this exciting journey, guiding our food services projects to success. You'll oversee every detail, ensuring our onigiri reaches more ...

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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 Jul 10, 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 project management tools and industry standards.

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.

Is PM a stressful job?

Project management (PM) can be stressful due to tight deadlines, budget constraints, and coordinating multiple stakeholders. Successful PMs often develop strong organizational and communication skills to manage workload and mitigate stress levels.

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 offer 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. Industries such as technology, finance, and engineering tend to pay these roles more competitively.

What is project development work?

Project development work involves planning, designing, and organizing projects to meet specific goals within set timelines and budgets. It often includes tasks such as feasibility analysis, resource allocation, and coordinating teams, 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 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

R & D Project Development Manager

JRG Partners

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$160K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Our client a leading food technology company is seeking a R & D Product Development Manager to join their dynamic and growing team.
The R&D Product Development Manager - Dairy, will report to the R&D Director. This position is located in the San Francisco area.
Responsibilities
    • Create delicious plant-based dairy analogues products that delight consumers and are in compliance with regulatory, nutritional and quality requirements
    • Work side by side with all the company functions in order to drive the top line, the efficiencies as well as uniquity of all products
    • Be accountable on working side by side with the machine learning team and the research team on all product development on improvement projects.
    • Design and execute bench-top tests, and pilot-plant trials to deliver high-quality food products with superior sensory attributes
    • Use sensory and instrumental analysis to guide the development process
    • Participate in the full product lifecycle, from product concept to successful commercial launch
    • Support process development, scale-up, and technology transfer
    • Leverage external resources to identify potential raw material solutions, define pilot test, sensory analysis, and positively affect project timelines
    • Maintain detailed documentation, experiment tracking, and outcomes, and document finish good specifications
    • Communicate proactively and effectively with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Quality, Sales, and Operations

Requirements
    • 8 or more years of progressive R&D experience and at least 4 years of management experience in food products including the successful execution of plant-based food products (dairy analogues preferred)
    • Bachelor's degree in food engineering, food science, or a similar discipline; Master's degree is a plus
    • Experience leading and developing a team, strong communication while fostering a great work environment
    • Experience in working with ingredient suppliers and co-manufacturers
    • Possess experience working in a consumer food company, start-up experience preferred
    • Excel in a startup environment is excited to create new procedures and processes from scratch and has a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
    • Be a problem solver, have a general manager mindset, and take the initiative to get the job done
    • Possess strong planning, project management, and execution skills, and the ability to articulate where and how you have used them.
    • Rigorous data-driven/analytical capability and ability and presence to present data effectively to a leadership team
    • Work well in teams and cross-functional groups in a matrixed environment both regionally and globally
    • Be agile, adaptable, and thrive in a dynamic and changing culture
    • Possess strong computer skills including a high level of proficiency in MS Office, specifically Excel
    • Ability to travel at least 10% of the time.

Compensation based on experience

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