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Real Estate Development Manager Jobs in California

Salted

Real Estate Development Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$100K - $140K/yr

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

Manager, Real Estate Development

Irvine, CA

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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All JobsReal Estate Development JobsReal Estate Development Manager JobsReal Estate Development Manager Jobs in California

Real Estate Development Manager information

See California salary details

$53.8K

$100.9K

$159.9K

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for real estate development manager in California is $100,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $126,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a development manager do in real estate?

A real estate development manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of real estate projects from conception to completion. They manage budgets, schedules, and teams, coordinate with architects, contractors, and government agencies, and ensure projects meet legal, safety, and quality standards. Strong project management skills and knowledge of zoning, permits, and market analysis are essential in this role.

Is being a BDM a stressful job?

A Business Development Manager (BDM) role can be stressful due to targets, client negotiations, and project deadlines. In real estate development management, stress may also stem from managing multiple stakeholders, tight schedules, and regulatory compliance. Strong organizational and communication skills help manage workload and reduce stress levels.

What is the difference between Real Estate Development Manager vs Real Estate Project Coordinator?

AspectReal Estate Development ManagerReal Estate Project Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in real estate, urban planning, or related field; often with experience in developmentBachelor's degree; entry-level or supporting role, often with some industry certifications
Work EnvironmentLeads development projects, interacts with stakeholders, oversees planning and executionSupports project teams, manages schedules, assists with documentation and communication
Employer & Industry UsageReal estate development firms, construction companies, property developersReal estate firms, construction companies, project management teams

The main difference is that the Real Estate Development Manager oversees entire development projects, making strategic decisions, while the Real Estate Project Coordinator supports project execution through administrative and coordination tasks. The manager has more responsibility for project success, whereas the coordinator focuses on supporting roles within the project team.

Do real estate developers make money?

Real estate development managers can earn significant income, often through salaries, bonuses, and profit sharing from successful projects. Their earnings depend on project size, experience, and the company's profitability, with some developers making substantial profits from property sales or leasing. Success in this role requires strong financial analysis, negotiation skills, and industry knowledge.

What are some common challenges faced by Real Estate Development Managers during the project lifecycle?

Real Estate Development Managers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex zoning and permitting processes, coordinating with multiple stakeholders (including investors, contractors, and local authorities), and managing project timelines and budgets. Unforeseen issues like market fluctuations, community concerns, or construction delays can also arise, requiring strong problem-solving and negotiation skills. Staying proactive and adaptable is essential for successfully bringing development projects from concept to completion.

What Does a Real Estate Development Manager Do?

A real estate development manager locates undeveloped land and oversees the work to prepare it for commercial or residential real estate construction. They may work on one or more development projects at a time and are knowledgeable of local real estate markets, growth trends, and occupancy rates in cities and counties. A good real estate development manager should be a strong negotiator.

What is the highest paid position in real estate?

In real estate, the highest paid positions are often executive roles such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Chief Investment Officer (CIO) within large development firms or real estate investment trusts (REITs). These roles typically require extensive experience, strategic leadership skills, and often involve overseeing large portfolios or development projects, resulting in high compensation packages including salary, bonuses, and equity. Compensation varies based on company size, location, and individual expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Real Estate Development Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Real Estate Development Manager, you need expertise in project management, real estate finance, market analysis, and a relevant degree such as in business, finance, or urban planning. Familiarity with property management software, financial modeling tools, and an understanding of zoning and permitting processes are typically required. Strong negotiation, leadership, and communication skills help drive projects forward and foster productive relationships with stakeholders. These competencies are vital for successfully managing complex development projects from concept to completion while maximizing profitability and minimizing risks.

What does a Real Estate Development Manager do?

A Real Estate Development Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of property development projects from inception to completion. Their responsibilities include identifying potential development opportunities, conducting feasibility studies, securing financing, managing budgets, obtaining necessary permits, and coordinating with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders. Their goal is to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulations, while also meeting the financial and strategic objectives of investors or property owners.
More about Real Estate Development Manager jobs
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 are popular job titles related to Real Estate Development Manager jobs in California? For Real Estate Development Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Real Estate Development Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Real Estate Development Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Real Estate Development Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Real Estate Development Manager job openings:
Real Estate Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Real Estate Development Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 57% In-person, 29% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,932 per year, or $48.5 per hour.
Real Estate Development Manager

Real Estate Development Manager

Rebel Convenience Stores

Upland, CA • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

We're seeking an experienced Real Estate Development Manager to lead the growth and performance of our property portfolio. In this high-impact role, you will identify the highest and best use of our real estate assets, drive strategic development initiatives, and partner with internal and external stakeholders to deliver long-term value.
If you thrive at the intersection of strategy, finance, development, and deal-making, this role offers the opportunity to influence major investment decisions and bring projects from concept to completion.
What You'll Do
  • Lead short- and long-term real estate strategies aligned with corporate goals including developing and growing brand relationships, new store development, expansions, remodels, and lease renewals.
  • Identify, evaluate, and present multimillion-dollar development and acquisition opportunities
  • Drive new store development, expansions, remodels, and lease renewals
  • Conduct market and demographic research to support site selection and investment decisions
  • Negotiate lease terms, development agreements, easements, and construction-related provisions
  • Oversee due diligence, entitlements, zoning, permitting, and full right-to-build approvals
  • Manage timelines, budgets, and project execution from acquisition through completion
  • Build strong relationships with REITs, brokers, developers, landlords, and legal partners
  • Lead property dispositions and manage broker networks to maximize asset value

Requirements
What You Bring
  • Minimum of 7 years of experience in real estate development, project management, finance, or related fields
  • Bachelor's degree in real estate, finance, GIS, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)
  • Five or more years of leadership or supervisory experience
  • Expertise in real estate property and entity valuations
  • Strong financial analysis, valuation, and investment evaluation expertise
  • Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment
  • Exceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills
  • High attention to detail with strong organizational and time-management abilities

Why This Role
This is an opportunity to shape market strategy, influence executive decisions, and directly impact company growth. You will own projects end-to-end and work with cross-functional teams to turn strategy into tangible results.
Compensation for this role is targeted at between $100,000 and $150,000 DOE
Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Time Off

Apply