Real Estate Developer

Enclave; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company match

Medical, dental & vision plans

Paid Time Off

Employee recognition programs

Job summary

Enclave in Chicago seeks a seasoned Developer to manage the full life cycle of real estate development projects, with a focus on multifamily, industrial, and build-to-suit properties. This role requires strategic oversight, market research, financial acumen, and strong project management to ensure timely, profitable completions that align with company goals and community needs.

The Developer will collaborate with internal teams, city officials, architects, contractors, and investors, preparing

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Construction, Urban Planning or related field or 5–10 years of overall experience in Development, Landscape Architecture, Civil Site Design, Construction, or City Planning.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial real estate developments

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess new development opportunities within multifamily, industrial, and build-to-suit sectors.
• Conduct market analysis to evaluate feasibility of new developments, including financial modeling, risk assessment, and site selection.
• Manage project concept through execution—from land acquisition, entitlement, design to construction and lease-up or sale.
• Prepare and present financial projections to leadership and investors, including costs, revenues, and returns.
• Develop and maintain relationships with investors, city officials, architects, contractors, and potential tenants.
• Lead project teams with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure timely completion.
• Coordinate zoning, permitting, and entitlement processes in compliance with regulations.
• Oversee project schedules and budgets; monitor progress and adjust as needed.
• Ensure quality control across design, construction, and operation.

Skills

Financial modeling

Market analysis

Project management

Communication

Negotiation

Zoning knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Construction/Urban Planning

Tools

Excel

Job description

About Us

"Inspired by Spaces, Empowered by People." At Enclave, we don't just build structures; we cultivate environments where our partners, team members, and communities flourish. Our very name reflects our essence - creating distinct spaces that inspires growth and success. As a unified real estate investment firm, Enclave brings together exceptional development, construction, and property management expertise to specialize in multifamily, industrial, and commercial developments across the Midwest and Mountain West.

Our Growth Story:

Since our founding in 2011, we've expanded to over 250 team members, completing more than 150 projects and managing assets exceeding $1.75 billion. Our rapid growth is a testament to the innovative and collaborative spirit that drives everything we do. For six consecutive years, Enclave has been recognized as one of the 50 Best Places to Work. This accolade reflects our commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired to excel.

About The Role

Developer

The Developer is responsible for managing the entire life cycle of real estate development projects with a focus on multifamily, industrial, and build-to-suit properties. This position requires strategic oversight, market research, financial acumen, and strong project management skills. The developer will work closely with internal teams, stakeholders, contractors, city officials, and investors to ensure timely and profitable project completions that align with company goals and community needs.

Position Responsibilities

Project Development & Strategy

• Identify and assess new development opportunities within the multifamily, industrial, and build-to-suit sectors.
• Conduct market analysis to evaluate the feasibility of new developments, including financial modeling, risk assessment, and determining appropriate site locations.
• Manage project concept through execution, from land acquisition, entitlement, and design through to construction and lease-up or sale.
• Prepare and present financial projections to leadership and investors, including development costs, revenue estimates, and potential returns on investment.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, city officials, architects, contractors, and potential tenants.

Financial Oversight & Budget Management

• Create detailed financial models for proposed projects, including cost estimates, profit margins, and cash flow analysis to ensure projects are financially viable.
• Oversee project budgets to ensure costs are controlled and projects stay within budget.
• Secure project financing, working with lenders, investors, and other financial partners to structure favorable deals and raise necessary capital.
• Monitor and report financial performance throughout the project lifecycle, adjusting strategies and budgets as necessary to maximize returns.

Project Coordination & Management

• Lead project teams that include architects, engineers, contractors, and legal advisors to ensure timely and successful project completion.
• Coordinate zoning, permitting, and entitlement processes, ensuring compliance with local regulations and requirements.
• Oversee project schedules, ensuring milestones are met and addressing any delays or challenges that arise during construction.
• Ensure quality control across all aspects of the project, including design, construction, and operational readiness of the property.
• Manage construction contracts, including negotiating terms, monitoring progress, and ensuring safety standards are met.

Stakeholder Communication & Reporting

• Provide regular updates to internal stakeholders, investors, and senior leadership on project progress, financial performance, and key risks.
• Develop relationships with government agencies and community leaders to ensure alignment with local development plans and gain support for projects.
• Assist with leasing and marketing efforts for multifamily and industrial properties, working with leasing agents and brokers to attract tenants and achieve occupancy targets.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify and mitigate project risks, including financial, environmental, and operational risks.
• Ensure projects comply with all zoning, environmental, and safety regulations, conducting site assessments and managing environmental remediation as needed.
• Monitor market trends and adjust strategies to align with shifts in the real estate market and economic conditions.

Sustainability & Innovation

• Incorporate sustainable building practices and technologies in design and construction to increase energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance long-term value.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, best practices, and technological innovations that can improve the development process, reduce costs, or create value for tenants and investors.

General Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned
• All employees are responsible for the general upkeep of work and shared spaced
• Punctual and regular attendance is required of all employees

We're Seeking Individuals Who Are

• Collaborative and able to work seamlessly with architects, engineers, contractors, consultants, and property managers to bring development visions to life through well-coordinated, executable plans.
• Strong communicators, confident across phone, email, written reports, and presentations, with the ability to build trust and maintain productive relationships with internal teams, external partners, investors, and municipal stakeholders.
• Highly adaptable and organized, with excellent prioritization and time-management skills, capable of managing multiple projects across various stages while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Financially and analytically proficient, with intermediate to advanced Excel skills, including building and interpreting models and development proformas, and translating data into clear, actionable insights.
• Strategic thinkers and sound decision-makers, skilled at evaluating complex information, identifying risks, and balancing short-term project needs with long-term organizational goals.
• Effective negotiators, experienced in working with vendors, contractors, external partners, and landowners to drive favorable outcomes while maintaining professionalism.
• Knowledgeable in zoning, permitting, and entitlement processes, with the ability to interpret regulations and proactively assess impacts on project feasibility, sequencing, and timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Construction, Urban Planning or related field or 5-10 years of overall experience in Development, Landscape Architecture, Civil Site Design, Construction, or City Planning.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial real estate developments

Culture & Total Rewards Approach

Why Join Enclave?

When you become part of Enclave, you join a team of trailblazers in the real estate, construction, and property management industry. Our collaborative and fun-loving culture encourages you to thrive both professionally and personally. Our Core Values define what we say and do.

• Care For Each Other: We value people for who they are and take pride in our relationships with team members, clients, and partners
• Do The Honorable Thing: We are committed to upholding the highest standards in our words and actions.
• Be Empowered: We encourage true autonomy, which results in team members who are remarkably inspired and high-performing.
• Promote Innovation: We constantly reach further and don't accept the status quo to bring the best service and product to the marketplace.

Total Rewards Approach

Our salary ranges are established based on a combination of market data, internal equity, and the unique characteristics of our organization such as our size, revenue, and industry. Within the range, individual pay is determined by multiple factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

At Enclave, we’re proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports your personal well-being, professional growth, and financial future.

Financial Wellbeing

• Competitive pay with ongoing performance review
• Role specific bonus potential and/or commission programs
• 401(k) with company match
• Various supplemental insurance options
• Employee referral program

Health & Wellness

• Medical, dental & vision plans
• Company-paid life & disability insurance
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) with employer contribution
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Mental health resources & employee assistance programs
• Paid bereavement & parental leave program
• Paid Time Off (PTO) plans, paid holiday and volunteer programs

Career & Culture

• Tuition reimbursement and leadership development opportunities
• Team-building and community engagement opportunities
• Employee recognition programs
• Supportive, values-driven work environment
• Regular team member feedback surveys to drive workplace improvements

At Enclave, we build more than spaces—we build rewarding careers. Join a team where your growth is supported, your contributions are valued, and your future is invested in.

Enclave provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Enclave does not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies without a valid signed agreement and partnership with the Talent Acquisition Team.