Development Project Manager
Samara is on a mission to create new ways of living that help people dream bigger. As part of our growth, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Development Project Manager to help bring our development projects to life.
The Development Project Manager will lead the preconstruction phase of key Samara projects, taking the reins of the project after property acquisition and owning the project development until it is permitted and ready for construction. This individual will be instrumental in driving project design, permitting, budgeting, and scheduling to meet critical milestones, financial goals, and project deliverables.
As the first hire in this position, you’ll also play a foundational role in defining and establishing preconstruction processes, procedures, and training programs for future hires. You will work closely with the VP of Revenue Operations, Acquisitions team, and Construction team to align efforts, refine workflows, and ensure successful project delivery.
If you’re passionate about managing development projects, preconstruction processes, and building scalable systems, we’d love to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop preconstruction processes, define workflows, and document standard operating procedures in collaboration with other internal departments.
- Establish standards for managing development processes around budgets, schedules, and procurement, ensuring scalability.
- Develop training resources for future Development Project Manager hires to achieve consistent execution.
- Collaborate with the Acquisitions team to ensure seamless transitions from property acquisition to development.
- Manage the preconstruction phase for multi-unit ADU and residential infill development projects, aligning budgets, schedules, and deliverables to meet project goals.
- Conduct risk assessments, develop mitigation strategies, and integrate contingency plans into project workflows.
- Drive the design and permitting process, procuring and coordinating with architects, engineers and consultants to deliver permit-ready project packages that align with the project needs and budget.
- Work directly with the AHJ to identify the needs for permit applications and complete the submission, drive the review, and obtain approved permits from the AHJ.
- Partner with the Construction team to align on scope, budget, and schedule for project handoff.
- Create and manage detailed project schedules with clear milestones, deadlines, and resource allocation.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate risks to ensure smooth project transitions to the construction team.
- Build relationships with vendors, consultants, and regulatory agencies to expedite approvals and project delivery.
- Prepare scopes of work and RFPs to facilitate the subcontractor bidding process and evaluate bids for accuracy and completeness.
- Work with the Construction team to evaluate bids and negotiate subcontracts with vendors and consultants to maximize project value.
- Establish the construction budget based on comprehensive bid evaluations and project scope.
- Develop and maintain accurate project budgets, ensuring alignment with financial goals.
- Track and report project costs during the preconstruction phase, identifying opportunities for cost optimization.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field.
- 7+ years of experience in preconstruction, project management, or related roles, preferably in residential development or commercial construction.
- Proven track record of managing design, permitting, budgeting, and procurement processes for development projects.
- Deep understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, and permitting processes.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in project management tools and software (e.g., Buildertrend, Bluebeam, Openspace).
- Preferred - Experience in multi-unit ADU or infill residential project development .
- Preferred - Familiarity with sustainable construction practices and design-build delivery models.
- Preferred - Strong negotiation skills and experience working with municipal agencies and stakeholders.
What We Offer
- Salary range of $150-170k and performance-based bonuses.
- Hybrid work schedule with 3 days each week in our Redwood City office.
- Early stage employee equity.
- Exceptional health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401k eligibility after 6 months.
- Flexible PTO policy.
If you’re ready to lead transformative development projects and shape the future of living in California, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and cover letter to this posting.
Be part of a team that’s building a better tomorrow.
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