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Real Estate Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

InSite Real Estate LLC

REAL ESTATE MANAGER

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$75K/yr

InSite Real Estate is seeking an Entry Level Real Estate Manager to join our Property Search Team. InSite is a quality-driven, growth-centered real estate development company committed to helping our ...

Miller Chicago Real Estate

Real Estate Broker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

You will gain exposure to all types of real estate transactions including Commercial, Residential, Development, and Property Management. This is a flexible, 100% commission position with much upside ...

Miller Chicago Real Estate

Real Estate Broker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

You will gain exposure to all types of real estate transactions including Commercial, Residential, Development, and Property Management. This is a flexible, 100% commission position with much upside ...

Airdo Werwas, LLC

Real Estate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience representing developers, businesses, nonprofit ... Our real estate practice advises clients through every stage of the development process, including ...

Airdo Werwas, LLC

Real Estate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience representing developers, businesses, nonprofit ... Our real estate practice advises clients through every stage of the development process, including ...

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Real Estate Developer information

What does a real estate developer do?

A real estate developer is responsible for overseeing the process of developing real estate projects, such as residential communities, office buildings, or shopping centers. Their work involves acquiring land, securing financing, coordinating with architects and contractors, obtaining permits, and managing the construction and marketing of the property. Real estate developers must assess market trends, manage budgets, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within scope. Their goal is to create profitable, functional, and appealing properties that meet community needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a real estate developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Real Estate Developer, you need a solid background in finance, project management, market analysis, and knowledge of real estate law, often supported by a degree in business, finance, or real estate. Familiarity with property management software, financial modeling tools, and permitting or zoning systems is typically required. Strong negotiation, leadership, and networking abilities help drive projects forward and build key partnerships. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully managing complex development projects, mitigating risks, and maximizing returns on investment.

What are some common challenges faced by real estate developers during the project lifecycle?

Real estate developers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex zoning regulations, securing project financing, coordinating with multiple stakeholders (including architects, contractors, and local authorities), and managing construction delays or budget overruns. Additionally, market fluctuations and changing consumer preferences can impact project viability and profitability. Successful developers proactively address these challenges through careful planning, risk management, and strong communication skills across multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Real Estate Developer vs Real Estate Agent?

AspectReal Estate DeveloperReal Estate Agent
CredentialsTypically requires real estate, finance, or development certifications; may need state licensingRequires real estate license; licensing varies by state
Work EnvironmentWorks on project planning, financing, and construction; often in offices and on-siteWorks with clients to buy, sell, or rent properties; primarily in offices and on property sites
Industry UsageInvolved in creating and managing real estate projects from inception to completionFacilitates property transactions between buyers and sellers

While real estate developers focus on creating and managing new property projects, real estate agents assist clients in buying, selling, or renting existing properties. Both roles require real estate knowledge but serve different stages of the property lifecycle.

How do you become a real estate developer?

To become a real estate developer, you typically need a background in real estate, finance, or construction, often gained through a bachelor's degree in business, real estate, or a related field. Gaining experience in real estate investment, project management, or construction is essential, along with developing strong networking and financial analysis skills; some professionals also pursue certifications like the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM).

Is a real estate developer a good career?

A real estate developer plans, finances, and manages the development of real estate projects, often requiring strong project management, financial analysis, and knowledge of local regulations. It can be a lucrative career with opportunities for growth, but it also involves high risk, long hours, and significant financial investment. Success depends on market conditions, experience, and networking skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Real Estate Developer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Real Estate Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Real Estate Developer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Real Estate Developer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Real Estate Developer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Real Estate Developer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Real Estate Developer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Real Estate Developer job openings:

Real Estate Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Real Estate Developer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution.

REAL ESTATE MANAGER

InSite Real Estate LLC

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Ready to build your career at one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies? InSite Real Estate is seeking an Entry Level Real Estate Manager to join our Property Search Team. InSite is a quality-driven, growth-centered real estate development company committed to helping our employees excel through challenging but rewarding projects, competitive benefits, and charting their own career paths.

Who We Are

InSite Real Estate is a nationally recognized commercial real estate development company based in Oak Brook, Illinois. Since our founding in 1988, InSite Real Estate has completed over 650 industrial, office, and retail projects in over 45 states across the nation. Throughout our decades of experience developing, owning, and operating tenant-driven investment property, we have worked on projects ranging from 2,000 SF to 2.6 million SF in size, and $1 million to $250 million in value. 

Our commitment to quality, integrity, and the growth of each of our employees makes InSite Real Estate an ideal place to accelerate your career. At InSite, we believe that individual growth and satisfaction lead to company growth, and we are committed to our employees’ success and professional development. InSite’s fast-paced, collaborative, and fun company culture makes it a great place to work, and as one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies, InSite is a financially strong, stable, and reliable employer.

Primary Responsibilities 

Job Description

Ready to build your career at one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies? InSite Real Estate is seeking an Entry Level Real Estate Manager to join our Property Search Team. InSite is a quality-driven, growth-centered real estate development company committed to helping our employees excel through challenging but rewarding projects, competitive benefits, and charting their own career paths.

Who We Are

InSite Real Estate is a nationally recognized commercial real estate development company based in Oak Brook, Illinois. Since our founding in 1988, InSite Real Estate has completed over 650 industrial, office, and retail projects in over 45 states across the nation. Throughout our decades of experience developing, owning, and operating tenant-driven investment property, we have worked on projects ranging from 2,000 SF to 2.6 million SF in size, and $1 million to $250 million in value. 

Our commitment to quality, integrity, and the growth of each of our employees makes InSite Real Estate an ideal place to accelerate your career. At InSite, we believe that individual growth and satisfaction lead to company growth, and we are committed to our employees’ success and professional development. InSite’s fast-paced, collaborative, and fun company culture makes it a great place to work, and as one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies, InSite is a financially strong, stable, and reliable employer.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and implement targeted solicitation to prospective sellers (property owners), including mail campaigns
  • Travel to markets nationwide to source and evaluate development sites for our clients
  • Prepare detailed site and market analysis and help prepare documents, site plans and budgets related to transactions
  • Prepare aerial maps, photos and parcel plans illustrating location, accessibility, traffic volume, transaction activity and history, and site opportunities in the market
  • In addition to working with Real Estate Managers, Senior Directors and Managing Directors within our Retail Property Team, you will interact independently with property owners, municipal officials, real estate brokers and prospective retail clients

Qualifications

  • College degree required
  • Instruction in real estate, finance and/or business is desired
  • Microsoft Office skills required
  • Microsoft Dynamics® CRM, LandVision™ CRE, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Acrobat, CoStar, Google Earth and digital mapping skills are a plus
  • Excellent organization and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently within a corporate structure
  • Ability to travel overnight routinely
  • Valid driver’s license 

Benefits

  • Generous paid vacation and sick time.
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance (short and long term).
  • 401(k) plan with 5% match and immediate vesting.
  • Voluntary benefit offerings: critical illness, accident insurance, hospital stay and pet insurance.
  • Flexible spending accounts including dependent care.
  • Fitness center on-site & discount membership to Lifetime Oakbrook.
  • Company-paid cell phone.
  • Personal financial planning services.
  • Exciting and collaborative culture.
  • Limitless opportunities for professional growth.