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Real Estate Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Ready to build your career at one of the nation's leading real estate development companies? InSite Real Estate is seeking an Entry Level Real Estate Manager to join our Property Search Team. InSite ...

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

OUR STORY MARQUEE DEVELOPMENT is a full-service real estate firm that specializes in mixed-use sports and entertainment districts. We strategically manage every aspect of a sports-adjacent mixed-use ...

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Path Construction is looking for a Development Manager to lead the execution of the company ... High proficiency with real estate underwriting and real estate finance concepts Benefits We offer:

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Path Construction is looking for a Development Manager to lead the execution of the company ... High proficiency with real estate underwriting and real estate finance concepts Benefits We offer:

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Path Construction is looking for a Development Manager to lead the execution of the company ... High proficiency with real estate underwriting and real estate finance concepts Benefits We offer:

OUR STORY MARQUEE DEVELOPMENT is a full-service real estate firm that specializes in mixed-use sports and entertainment districts. We strategically manage every aspect of a sports-adjacent mixed-use ...

Real Estate Broker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

You will gain exposure to all types of real estate transactions including Commercial, Residential, Development, and Property Management. This is a flexible, 100% commission position with much upside ...

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Real Estate Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$56.1K

$105.4K

$166.9K

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for real estate development manager in Chicago, IL is $105,354.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,300.00 and $131,900.00 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.
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 Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Real Estate Development Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Real Estate Development Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Real Estate Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Real Estate Development Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,437 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

REAL ESTATE MANAGER

InSite Real Estate LLC

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Ready to build your career at one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies? InSite Real Estate is seeking an Entry Level Real Estate Manager to join our Property Search Team. InSite is a quality-driven, growth-centered real estate development company committed to helping our employees excel through challenging but rewarding projects, competitive benefits, and charting their own career paths.

Who We Are

InSite Real Estate is a nationally recognized commercial real estate development company based in Oak Brook, Illinois. Since our founding in 1988, InSite Real Estate has completed over 650 industrial, office, and retail projects in over 45 states across the nation. Throughout our decades of experience developing, owning, and operating tenant-driven investment property, we have worked on projects ranging from 2,000 SF to 2.6 million SF in size, and $1 million to $250 million in value.

Our commitment to quality, integrity, and the growth of each of our employees makes InSite Real Estate an ideal place to accelerate your career. At InSite, we believe that individual growth and satisfaction lead to company growth, and we are committed to our employees’ success and professional development. InSite’s fast-paced, collaborative, and fun company culture makes it a great place to work, and as one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies, InSite is a financially strong, stable, and reliable employer.

Primary Responsibilities

Job Description

Ready to build your career at one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies? InSite Real Estate is seeking an Entry Level Real Estate Manager to join our Property Search Team. InSite is a quality-driven, growth-centered real estate development company committed to helping our employees excel through challenging but rewarding projects, competitive benefits, and charting their own career paths.

Who We Are

InSite Real Estate is a nationally recognized commercial real estate development company based in Oak Brook, Illinois. Since our founding in 1988, InSite Real Estate has completed over 650 industrial, office, and retail projects in over 45 states across the nation. Throughout our decades of experience developing, owning, and operating tenant-driven investment property, we have worked on projects ranging from 2,000 SF to 2.6 million SF in size, and $1 million to $250 million in value.

Our commitment to quality, integrity, and the growth of each of our employees makes InSite Real Estate an ideal place to accelerate your career. At InSite, we believe that individual growth and satisfaction lead to company growth, and we are committed to our employees’ success and professional development. InSite’s fast-paced, collaborative, and fun company culture makes it a great place to work, and as one of the nation’s leading real estate development companies, InSite is a financially strong, stable, and reliable employer.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and implement targeted solicitation to prospective sellers (property owners), including mail campaigns
  • Travel to markets nationwide to source and evaluate development sites for our clients
  • Prepare detailed site and market analysis and help prepare documents, site plans and budgets related to transactions
  • Prepare aerial maps, photos and parcel plans illustrating location, accessibility, traffic volume, transaction activity and history, and site opportunities in the market
  • In addition to working with Real Estate Managers, Senior Directors and Managing Directors within our Retail Property Team, you will interact independently with property owners, municipal officials, real estate brokers and prospective retail clients

Qualifications

  • College degree required
  • Instruction in real estate, finance and/or business is desired
  • Microsoft Office skills required
  • Microsoft Dynamics® CRM, LandVisionâ„¢ CRE, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Acrobat, CoStar, Google Earth and digital mapping skills are a plus
  • Excellent organization and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently within a corporate structure
  • Ability to travel overnight routinely
  • Valid driver’s license

Benefits

  • Generous paid vacation and sick time.
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance (short and long term).
  • 401(k) plan with 5% match and immediate vesting.
  • Voluntary benefit offerings: critical illness, accident insurance, hospital stay and pet insurance.
  • Flexible spending accounts including dependent care.
  • Fitness center on-site & discount membership to Lifetime Oakbrook.
  • Company-paid cell phone.
  • Personal financial planning services.
  • Exciting and collaborative culture.
  • Limitless opportunities for professional growth.