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Real Estate Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

5 Legal

Corporate Real Estate Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

... top 100 Am Law firm seeks an associate to join their Real Estate Practice Area. Qualified ... leasing and development. Excellent writing and analytical skills, along with a strong academic ...

Forestar

Real Estate Analyst-FG

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

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 ...

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All JobsReal Estate Development Associate JobsReal Estate Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Real Estate Development Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$90.5K

$140.1K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for real estate development associate in Chicago, IL is $90,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $115,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Is real estate development a good career?

A career as a real estate development associate involves managing projects from planning to completion, requiring skills in finance, negotiation, and project management. It can be financially rewarding and offers opportunities for growth, but it also involves high competition, market risks, and long hours. Success depends on industry knowledge, networking, and adaptability to market conditions.

What are entry level jobs in real estate development?

Entry-level jobs in real estate development often include roles such as development assistant, project coordinator, or research analyst. These positions typically require strong organizational skills, basic knowledge of real estate markets, and proficiency with tools like Microsoft Office; they provide foundational experience for advancing in the field.

What is a real estate development associate?

A real estate development associate is a professional who supports the planning, coordination, and execution of real estate projects, including site analysis, financial modeling, and project management. They often work with developers, architects, and investors to ensure projects meet deadlines and budgets, typically requiring knowledge of real estate markets and relevant software tools.

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 are popular job titles related to Real Estate Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Real Estate Development Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles 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:

Real Estate Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Real Estate Development Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,509 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Real Estate Associate Attorney Chicago

Direct Counsel

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$225K - $455K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Advise clients on sophisticated commercial real estate transactions.

  • Represent clients in real estate joint ventures, acquisitions, dispositions, and Real Estate M&A and private equity transactions.

  • Handle real estate financings, related investment transactions, and assist with real estate fund formation and investment structures.

Job description

Real Estate Associate Attorney – Chicago

Direct Counsel is seeking Real Estate Associate Attorneys at the junior through senior levels to join a leading AmLaw 100 law firm’s highly regarded Real Estate practice in Chicago. The firm is seeking lateral candidates with varying levels of experience to work on a broad range of sophisticated commercial real estate transactions.

Position Overview

The ideal candidates will have strong academic credentials and meaningful experience in the Real Estate practice of a peer firm. Attorneys will have the opportunity to work on complex transactions involving a wide range of real estate asset classes and collaborate with attorneys across the firm’s global platform.

Responsibilities

  • Advise clients on sophisticated commercial real estate transactions.

  • Represent clients in real estate joint ventures, acquisitions, dispositions, and Real Estate M&A and private equity transactions.

  • Handle real estate financings and related investment transactions.

  • Assist with real estate fund formation and investment structures.

  • Advise clients on leasing matters and other real estate operational issues.

  • Work on transactions involving the purchase, sale, co-investment, construction, financing, development, leasing, management, and operation of real property.

  • Handle matters across a broad range of asset classes, including office, multifamily, single-family, industrial, logistics, hospitality, data centers, and retail.

  • Collaborate with attorneys across multiple practice areas and offices to deliver sophisticated, business-focused legal advice.

  • Develop and maintain strong client relationships while providing high-quality, responsive service.

Qualifications

  • J.D. from an accredited law school.

  • Admission to the Illinois Bar required.

  • Junior-level candidates: approximately 1–3 years of real estate experience.

  • Mid-to-senior-level candidates: approximately 4+ years of real estate experience.

  • Meaningful experience practicing real estate law at a peer law firm.

  • Strong academic credentials and demonstrated legal ability.

  • Excellent analytical, drafting, negotiation, and communication skills.

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

  • Ability to work effectively in a sophisticated, fast-paced legal environment.

Compensation

For junior-level candidates, the anticipated starting base salary is $225,000–$235,000 annually.

For mid-to-senior-level candidates, the anticipated starting base salary is $310,000–$455,000 annually.

Actual compensation will be determined based on skills, experience, and other job-related factors. Attorneys may also be eligible for a discretionary year-end bonus.

Work Arrangement & Benefits

The firm offers a hybrid work model, currently consisting of working in the office Monday through Thursday, with opportunities for attorneys to work remotely for specified periods throughout the year.

Lateral attorneys participate in an enhanced mentorship program designed to support the unique needs of attorneys transitioning into the firm. The firm also offers extensive professional development opportunities and a robust pro bono program that allows attorneys to pursue causes aligned with their interests while receiving credit for their pro bono work.