Industrial Development Lead: Ground-Up Projects

MHW Search; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

MHW Search, partnered with an Industrial Investment/Development firm, seeks a Senior Development Manager in Chicago to lead ground-up industrial development and existing portfolios from concept to completion.

The role oversees entitlement, design, budgeting, scheduling, and vendor selection, working with asset management and originations to evaluate opportunities. A client-facing, sales-oriented mindset is preferred.

Qualifications

• BA or BS in Construction Management, Project Management, Architecture, Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in design, engineering, or construction management in commercial real estate and industrial development.
• Proven track record of 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.
• Experience negotiating commercial contracts.
• Experience with construction budgeting and scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Conduct site due diligence and manage entitlement, rezoning, and permitting processes — including zoning review, utility coordination, and feasibility analysis.
• 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.
• Coordinate and oversee all construction activities, ensuring adherence to timelines, specifications, and quality control standards.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress and manage change orders.
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, stakeholders, and project partners.

Skills

Leadership & team management

Contract negotiation

Budgeting & scheduling

Project management

Stakeholder communication

Education

BA/BS in Construction Management or related field

Job description

MHW Search, partnered with an Industrial Investment/Development firm, seeks a Senior Development Manager in Chicago to lead ground-up industrial development and existing portfolios from concept to completion.

The role oversees entitlement, design, budgeting, scheduling, and vendor selection, working with asset management and originations to evaluate opportunities. A client-facing, sales-oriented mindset is preferred.