Project Development Manager (Construction & Real Estate Development)

C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.Fond Du Lac, WI

$100,000 - $160,000 / year

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Overview

Remote

On-site

Compensation

$100,000-$160,000/year

Job Description

SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

C.D. Smith is seeking a high-impact Project Development Manager to orchestrate the full project pursuit lifecycle—from initial client engagement through preconstruction, construction, closeout, and follow-up. This role blends business development, project management, preconstruction, and entitlement/development work, with a strong preference for construction oversight experience. You will support and lead high-value pursuits in Wisconsin and across the United States, driving pursuit planning, information gathering, and client value creation. The role may also support strategic initiatives such as mergers & acquisitions, EPC team building, and other development pursuits.

This position will be based in one of our Wisconsin offices: Milwaukee, Madison, or Fond du Lac, with travel as needed to support pursuits and projects throughout the United States.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Strategic vision: Define long-term development and pursuit strategy; identify emerging market opportunities; and set tactical objectives for growth.

· Client & pursuit leadership: Lead pursuit planning, coordinate information gathering, and articulate differentiated client value throughout the pursuit lifecycle.

· Acquisition & feasibility: Source new opportunities and complete financial analysis (including pro forma modeling) and risk assessments to determine project viability.

· Preconstruction & entitlement coordination: Partner with internal and external teams to advance preconstruction planning, permitting, and development/entitlement activities.

· Project oversight: Provide executive-level coordination from pursuit through closeout—aligning scope, schedule, and delivery approach while supporting strong construction execution.

· Financial management: Support securing project financing (lenders/investors), manage capital budgets, and monitor expenditures to reduce risk of overruns.

· Stakeholder management: Build and maintain relationships with architects, engineers, general contractors, public officials, and investors.

· Operational involvement: Participate in and help lead internal teams; provide mentorship and help establish performance goals and operating rhythms.

· Asset/portfolio management: Support management of existing assets/LLC structures and coordinate with accounting on reporting and ongoing administration.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

· Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field (preferred; not required).

· 4–10+ years of experience in construction and/or real estate development with a track record of successful project delivery and strong cross-functional team participation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

· Construction administration: Demonstrated involvement in project management and/or construction services, with the ability to support strong execution and oversight.

· Strategic thinking: Ability to interpret market data and demographic trends and translate insights into viable pursuit and development strategies.

· Financial acumen: Comfort with budgeting, pro formas, and basic risk/return evaluation to support go/no-go decisions.

· Communication & influence: Ability to engage clients and partners, align internal stakeholders, and communicate clearly across technical and business audiences.

· Organization: Skilled at managing multiple concurrent, high-value pursuits with disciplined planning and follow-through.

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FAQs About Project Development Manager (Construction & Real Estate Development) Jobs at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.

What is the work location for this position at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

This job at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc. is located in Fond Du Lac, WI, according to the details provided by the employer. Some roles may also include multiple work locations depending on the requirement.

What pay range can candidates expect for this role at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

Candidates can expect a pay range of $100,000 and $160,000 per year.

What employment applies to this position at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

The employer has not provided this information. This may be discussed during the hiring process.

What is the process to apply for this position at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc.?

You can apply for this role at C.D. Smith Construction, Inc. either through Sonara's automated application system, which helps you submit applications 10X faster with minimal effort, or by applying manually using the direct link on the job page.