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Real Estate Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Vice President, Real Estate

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$175K - $275K/yr

Our portfolio spans retail strip centers, gas stations, QSRs, and large-scale mixed-use developments. We're not your typical real estate investment firm. We're strategic operators, acquiring ...

Forestar Group Inc. is a residential lot development company focused on delivering desirable ... Forestar Group is currently looking for a Real Estate Analyst-FG . The right candidate will work ...

Showing results 41-60

Real Estate Development Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32K

$90.6K

$140.2K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for real estate development associate in Chicago, IL is $90,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $116,000.00 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 Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Real Estate Development Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $90,581 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Development Associate

NorthPoint Development

Downers Grove, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

*This is an in-person role in the Downers Grove, IL office.
Curious about a career with NorthPoint?
NorthPoint is a real estate developer that has grown through combining an entrepreneurial spirit and empowerment of its team members. We are looking to add a Development Associate to our growing team! NorthPoint provides an inclusive environment that cultivates collaboration and mentorship. Our core values set the foundation of our culture and guide us in every business decision.
"We truly believe, and I'm convinced, we have some pretty incredible assets. But those assets have all come from our people." - Nathaniel Hagedorn | CEO.
How We Put You First
At NorthPoint Development we ask a lot of our employees, which is why we give so much in return. In addition to your competitive salary, we offer market-leading benefits and perks:
  • A selection of comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
  • 401k with 100% match up to 6%, immediately vested upon enrollment
  • Scholarships and paid professional development
  • Wellness Spending Account
  • Cellphone Reimbursement
  • Mental Health Reimbursement
  • Childcare Reimbursement
  • $2,000 annual HRA and HSA contribution
  • Free catered lunches + fully stocked kitchen
  • Parental Paid Leave
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Living Generously program with 100% charitable contribution match

What You'll Do
  • Support the internal project team with initial project due diligence work including opportunity evaluation, entitlement analysis, market research, project budget establishment and investment offering preparation
  • Assist in the creation, tracking and management of development schedules including due diligence, entitlements, design, permitting and land closing
  • Work with NorthPoint's Capital and Asset Management teams to ensure accurate project reports are distributed to capital partners
  • Assist with the coordination of consultants (civil, environmental, geotechnical, etc.)
  • Organize the process of identifying scope and analyzing bids from both consultants and contractors related to pre-construction site preparation
  • Manage consultants and coordinate with NorthPoint team members to ensure that applications, permit submittals, and responses are delivered in a prompt manner
  • Facilitate regularly scheduled progress meetings with project stakeholders throughout the development process
  • Other research and analytical duties as necessary to support development execution

Who You Are
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture or Real Estate
  • 2-3 years of experience in relevant position
  • Strong interpersonal communicator
  • Energetic, resourceful, and hands-on individual with a strong service orientation
  • Detail focused with great organizational skills
  • Able to approach problems both logically and creatively
  • Confident and knowledgeable when interacting with all team members & outside parties
  • Able to work collaboratively as a team and independently

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status