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Senior Development Writer Jobs in Naperville, IL

MHW Search

Senior Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

We are seeking a Senior Development Manager to join the team. Position Overview: The Development ... written and oral communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex topics for broad ...

VSA Partners

Senior Writer

Chicago, IL

Role Overview The Senior Writer is responsible for developing relevant, memorable and highly ... Collaborate in the development and definition of the "voice" for a client, a program or individual ...

VSA Partners

Senior Writer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Role Overview The Senior Writer is responsible for developing relevant, memorable and highly ... Collaborate in the development and definition of the "voice" for a client, a program or individual ...

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Senior Development Writer information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$56.4K

$102.9K

$169.7K

How much do senior development writer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior development writer in Naperville, IL is $102,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,900.00 and $123,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior development writer do?

A Senior Development Writer is responsible for creating compelling written materials that support an organization's fundraising and development goals. This includes writing grant proposals, donor communications, case statements, annual reports, and stewardship letters. They collaborate closely with fundraising teams, program staff, and leadership to ensure that messaging aligns with the organization’s mission and appeals to donors. Senior Development Writers often manage multiple projects simultaneously and may mentor junior writers. Their work plays a critical role in securing funding and building strong relationships with supporters.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior development writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Development Writer, you need strong writing, editing, and storytelling abilities, typically supported by a background in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management systems, fundraising platforms, and content management systems is often required. Exceptional relationship-building, attention to detail, and project management skills help you connect with stakeholders and deliver compelling materials on time. These skills ensure effective communication of organizational impact, which is critical for successful fundraising and donor engagement.

How does a senior development writer typically collaborate with fundraising and communications teams?

A Senior Development Writer works closely with fundraising and communications teams to craft compelling proposals, donor reports, and stewardship materials. Collaboration often involves participating in strategy meetings, gathering program information from various departments, and ensuring messaging aligns with organizational goals. These writers also coordinate with graphic designers and digital staff to produce polished materials that resonate with donors. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential, as deadlines can be tight and priorities may shift quickly in response to fundraising needs.

What is the difference between Senior Development Writer vs Technical Writer?

AspectSenior Development WriterTechnical Writer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Communications, English, or related field; experience in development or grant writingBachelor's degree in Technical Communication, Engineering, or related field; technical writing certifications
Work EnvironmentNonprofit, government, or corporate sectors focusing on development projectsEngineering firms, tech companies, or manufacturing industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in organizations requiring grant proposals, development reports, and program documentationUsed in industries needing user manuals, technical documentation, and product guides

The main difference is that Senior Development Writers focus on creating proposals, reports, and content related to development projects, often in nonprofit or government sectors. Technical Writers primarily produce technical documentation like manuals and guides for products or systems. While both roles require strong writing skills and relevant credentials, their focus areas and industry applications differ significantly.

Senior Development Writer jobs near you

Senior Development Manager

MHW Search

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

MHW Search has exclusively partnered with an Industrial Investment/Development firm with over $8.5 billion in AUM across the country. We are seeking a Senior Development Manager to join the team.


Position Overview:

The Development Manager will play an integral role in ground-up industrial development and existing industrial portfolio projects. The position will work closely with the Development Management team and will coordinate and oversee the development and construction of the firm's speculative and build-to-suit industrial projects from conception to completion. This role involves managing the vetting and hiring of architects, contractors, engineers, and consultants; overseeing construction to ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget; managing entitlement and rezoning processes to obtain project approvals; supporting the Asset Management team with capital improvements, tenant improvements, and repair and maintenance projects; and working with the originations team to determine the viability of potential projects. The Development Manager is expected to be comfortable in a presentation and selling environment, as well as able to proficiently execute ground-up construction projects. The ability to externally grow the business through self-generated opportunities and outside selling is preferred.


Key Responsibilities

· Conduct site due diligence and manage entitlement, rezoning, and permitting processes — including zoning review, utility coordination, and feasibility analysis — partnering with the originations team to evaluate development opportunities and secure project approvals.

· Lead the vetting and selection of architects, engineers, and consultants for each project.

· Review and guide conceptual and detailed designs to optimize constructability, cost, schedule, and operational functionality.

· Lead RFP development, bid leveling, and procurement of contractors and consultants.

· Develop and manage project budgets and pre-construction cost estimates.

· Negotiate and manage contracts, including scope, pricing, and terms and conditions, with architects, contractors, consultants, and development partners.

· Coordinate and oversee all construction activities, ensuring adherence to timelines, specifications, and quality control standards, including compliance with safety codes and regulations.

· Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress, manage change orders, and address issues promptly to keep projects on schedule and budget.

· Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to minimize impact on project timelines and costs.

· Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, stakeholders, and project partners, providing regular updates on project status, milestones, and potential challenges.


Basic Qualifications:

· BA or BS in Construction Management, Project Management, Architecture, Engineering or equivalent from an accredited university.

· Minimum of 7 years of experience in design, engineering, or construction management, specifically within commercial real estate and industrial development.

· Proven track record of successfully managing ground-up development projects from inception to completion.

· Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry best practices.

· Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide diverse teams.

· Experience negotiating commercial contracts (e.g., master agreements, work orders).

· Experience with construction budgeting and scheduling

Preferred Qualifications:

· Architectural Registration, Professional Engineer Registration, CEM, PMP, and/or other building professional accreditation.

· Ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical business owners/partners to overcome obstacles and deliver results.

· Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex topics for broad audiences and meet tight deadlines.

· Ability to travel up to 50%

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