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Real Estate Development Associate Jobs in California

Real Estate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$250K - $400K/yr

Advise clients on commercial leasing matters for office, industrial, retail, and mixed-use properties. * Assist with real estate development projects, including joint ventures and entity structuring.

Real Estate Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$205K - $275K/yr

We are seeking a high-caliber Real Estate Associate (2-5 years) to join an Am Law 100 firm renowned ... Proven track record handling acquisitions, developments, and representation of financial ...

Real Estate Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

Associate Attorney - Real Estate Litigation Location: Irvine, California (Hybrid) About the firm ... Advise clients regarding litigation strategy, risk assessment, and case developments. * Manage ...

Description Weintraub Tobin's Sacramento office is seeking a full-time Real Estate Associate with ... The Firm's Real Estate practice group has played an integral role in the growth and development of ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

At Movement Real Estate, we're not your typical real estate company. We're all about action and ... Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Schedule: Monday to Friday Self-determined ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 15, 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, and why are they important?

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 associate do?

A real estate development associate supports the planning, analysis, and execution of real estate projects. They conduct market research, assist with financial modeling, coordinate with stakeholders, and help manage project timelines, often using tools like Excel and project management software. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

Is real estate development a good career?

A career as a real estate development associate involves managing projects from acquisition to construction, requiring skills in finance, negotiation, and project management. It can be financially rewarding and offers opportunities for advancement, but it also involves high competition, market risk, and long hours. Success depends on industry knowledge, networking, and the ability to navigate complex regulations.

What is a development associate in real estate?

A development associate in real estate is a professional responsible for supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of real estate development projects. They often handle tasks such as market research, financial analysis, and project management, working closely with developers, architects, and investors to ensure project milestones are met.

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 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, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% 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.
Mid-Level Real Estate Associate

Mid-Level Real Estate Associate

Stoel Rives LLP

San Diego, CA • On-site

$220K - $295K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Stoel Rives LLP is seeking an associate with three to six years of experience to join its Real Estate Practice Group in the San Diego office. The associate will work closely with clients who are national leaders in the agriculture, renewable energy, timber, and mining industries, as well as other local and regional real estate developers, owners, and operators.
Our Real Estate & Construction Team
The Stoel Rives Real Estate & Construction team consists of more than 60 attorneys who provide legal counsel to real estate owners, developers, contractors, investors, and lenders, as well as architects, engineers, and suppliers. Our real estate, development, and construction attorneys assist clients with the land use, design, acquisition, disposition, development, financing, risk allocation and insurance assessment, construction, leasing, and sale of commercial, residential, and agricultural properties. Our clients know our team for their strategic planning, smart advice, practical risk management, and business acumen.
Skills & Experience Needed
Below are the skills and experience necessary for this role. Candidates might not have all of these skills and experiences, but if you have many of them and are enthusiastic to develop others, we encourage you to apply.
  • 3-6 years of experience in commercial real estate transactions.
  • Experience drafting real estate transaction documents, including purchase and sale agreements, leases, loan documents, and ancillary agreements.
  • Experience drafting construction-related documents, including prime contracts, design-build agreements, subcontracts, construction management agreements, and vendor contracts, is a plus.
  • Experience with due diligence, including title and survey review, zoning analysis, and coordination with consultants.
  • Strong analytical, drafting, and negotiation skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple deals and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication and client service skills with a business-oriented mindset.
  • Team-oriented with ability to collaborate across practice areas.
  • J.D. from an accredited law school and active membership in or commitment to applying for the California bar.

Hours Expectations & Compensation
The hours expectation for this position is 1,800 billable hours and an "all-in" hours expectation of 2,050 or 2,150, depending on seniority. The billable hours expectation includes up to 50 pro bono hours. All-in hours include the billable hours expectation as well as any additional billable hours, additional pro bono hours, and investment hours. Investment activities include business development, professional development, mentoring and coaching, recruiting, contributing to the firm's workplace culture, and civic and community activities.
To be eligible for a bonus, associates must reach or exceed 1,850 billable hours (inclusive of up to 50 pro bono hours) and meet or exceed the all-in hours expectation.
The base compensation range for this position is $220,000 - $295,000, inclusive of salaries in all listed markets. Base compensation presented to an individual candidate may vary based on skills, overall experience, and market location.
Developing & Retaining Talent
Stoel Rives places a high priority on attracting, developing, and retaining lawyers and business professionals.
We offer a variety of training programs and retreats addressing practice area topics and skills at all levels, as well as legal and professional skills generally. We have a coaching and mentoring program, and our new lawyer integration program provides new lawyers with the resources and information necessary to succeed after they join the firm. Finally, we have a core competency model which is a roadmap of the practical skills, abilities, and client service techniques needed for long-term success at the firm.
We value lawyers and business professionals who bring to the firm different backgrounds and experiences. Our people bring a variety of educational backgrounds, unique career experiences, bodies of knowledge, technical abilities, and community involvement. This variety makes us better at advising and serving our clients and it ensures a positive and supportive workplace for everyone.
We are proud participants in the ABA Well-Being Pledge, strongly believing that the well-being of our people is paramount to the success of the firm.
To learn more about the benefits of working as an attorney at Stoel Rives, click here.