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Real Estate Development Associate Jobs in California

Foundational knowledge of real estate development, construction, or related disciplines. * Strong ... associates, investors, clients and external partners/vendors. * Strong written and verbal ...

We're looking for a Real Estate Development Manager who will lead the charge in identifying new self-processing locations across the country and overseeing their development from start to finish. The ...

Chagee is seeking a dynamic and deal-focused Real Estate Manager to drive site acquisition and lease execution for new store development across California. This role will be responsible for ...

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Real Estate Development Associate information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$86.7K

$134.2K

How much do real estate development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for real estate development associate in California is $86,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Real Estate Development Associates often encounter challenges such as navigating complex zoning and permitting processes, managing tight project timelines, and coordinating among multiple stakeholders like architects, contractors, and local officials. Balancing budget constraints while ensuring project quality and compliance can also be demanding. Successful associates proactively address these hurdles by staying organized, communicating effectively with team members, and continuously monitoring project milestones to avoid delays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a real estate development associate?

To excel as a Real Estate Development Associate, you need a solid understanding of real estate finance, market analysis, and project management, typically supported by a degree in business, real estate, or a related field. Familiarity with financial modeling software (like Excel or Argus), zoning regulations, and project management tools is commonly required. Strong negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively with stakeholders and navigate complex development processes. These skills are crucial for successfully overseeing projects from inception to completion, ensuring profitability and compliance.

What is the difference between Real Estate Development Associate vs Real Estate Analyst?

AspectReal Estate Development AssociateReal Estate Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in real estate, finance, or related field; some roles prefer certifications like CCIMBachelor's degree in finance, economics, or related; often pursuing CFA or similar certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, site visits, project meetingsOffice-based, data analysis, market research
Employer & Industry UsageReal estate development firms, construction companies, investment firmsReal estate investment firms, financial institutions, consulting firms

While both roles involve real estate, a Real Estate Development Associate focuses on project planning, coordination, and execution of development projects. In contrast, a Real Estate Analyst primarily conducts market research, financial analysis, and investment evaluations. The roles often overlap in skills but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

What does a real estate development associate do?

A Real Estate Development Associate supports the planning, coordination, and execution of real estate projects, such as residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments. Their responsibilities often include conducting market research, analyzing financial data, assisting in securing permits, and coordinating with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders. They help ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulations. This role is crucial in turning development concepts into successful, profitable properties.
What are the most commonly searched types of Real Estate Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Real Estate Development jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Real Estate Development Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Real Estate Development Associate jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Real Estate Development Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Real Estate Development Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Real Estate Development Associate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,710 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Real Estate Development Associate

ConAm Management

San Diego, CA • Hybrid

$105K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


CONAM Management rating

3.3

Company rating: 3.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 201 rated real estate companies


Job description

Development Associate - On Site at the Corporate Office, San Diego, CA

Who We Are: Founded in 1975, CONAM Management operates in 10 states, across 26 key metropolitan markets, supporting over 60,000 apartment units of both affordable and conventional housing. Our growing team of over 1,700 associates is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for our residents. At CONAM, we foster a collaborative, team-oriented culture where our associates thrive and are valued for their expertise and commitment.

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for an energetic, forward thinking, resourceful candidate. The Development Associate will provide support to the Development team in analyzing new development opportunities, providing cost/financial analyses on new and ongoing developments, managing project budgets, administering contracts, performing market research, compiling project data, and maintaining/ updating analytical tools. This role offers exposure to the full lifecycle of multifamily development, working closely with senior leadership from acquisition through project delivery.

The Development Associate position works out of our San Diego Corporate Office five days a week. The candidate must be local to San Diego. This is a Full-Time Position | Salary Range: $105,000-$120,000

Key Responsibilities:

Acquisitions & New Development

  • Support EVP of Development in identifying, evaluating, underwriting, and recommending new development opportunities.
  • Communicate with brokers and other points of contact regarding opportunities.
  • Compile data including financial, market, demographic, site, federal, and state regulatory data.
  • Research and analyze a variety of sources such as general plans, ordinances, court decisions, legal documents, and articles for use in determining highest and best use of multifamily development projects.

Financial Analysis & Underwriting

  • Support and perform project underwriting responsibilities including financial analysis, market research, and due diligence.
  • Monitor market and submarket fundamentals including supply and demand fundamentals, lease comps, and sales comps.
  • Prepare forecasts for new and existing projects.
  • Develop and maintain proformas, analytical tools, and data management processes.

        Project Execution & Management

        • Actively participate in, and lead as needed, project meetings and activities.
        • Prepare, maintain, and report budgets, schedules, and other KPI metrics.
        • Organize consultant procurement and administer contracts.
        • Prepare meeting agendas and issue meeting minutes as necessary.
        • Compile and analyze key project data to support development execution.
        • Develop forecasts, dashboards, reports, and presentations.
        • Order and summarize third party reports.
        • Collect and disseminate due diligence information.
        • Provide capital projections, and reporting for the development team.
        • Assist in coordinating the development team, accounting, and capital partners.

        Reporting & Communication

        • Communicate in a professional, thorough manner. Within the development department and to senior company management, and with third-party capital investors, brokers, property managers, industry consultants, and third parties.
        • Prepare clear, professional, and visually compelling materials as needed.

            All other duties as assigned.

            Who You Are: (Requirements of the Position)

            • Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred.
            • Focus in real estate, finance, economics, or related field.
            • Foundational knowledge of real estate development, construction, or related disciplines.
            • Strong financial modeling, including development proformas and sensitivity analysis.
            • Experience underwriting multifamily or mixed-use development projects preferred.
            • Advanced proficiency in Excel; proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required. Experience with additional project management and analysis software preferred.
            • Working experience with contracts, including consultant agreements, AIA document forms, contractor agreements, and construction payment applications is preferred.
            • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders, including senior staff, associates, investors, clients and external partners/vendors.
            • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including investor-facing materials.
            • Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment.

            Why You'll Love Working Here:
            CONAM Management Corporation is more than just a job — it’s a career where you can grow and be recognized for your expertise in Property Management. We offer competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, that make working at CONAM even more rewarding.

            Our benefits include:

            • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
            • Pet insurance
            • Life insurance and identity theft protection
            • Paid sick and vacation time
            • 401(k) plan with company match
            • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
            • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
            • Additional perks: Service award days, floating holiday, early earned wage access, and more

            At CONAM, we pride ourselves on our culture of excellence and commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and supportive work environment.

            Additional Information:

            • This position is contingent upon passing a background check, employment verification, and drug screening.
            • CONAM will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the law.
            • We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

            Ready to make an impact?
            If you're excited about joining a team that values your skills and offers great benefits, click “APPLY”.

            Pay Bands: Pay bands are established based on geographic location, internal equity, market conditions, and candidate qualifications. We provide competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.


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