Retail Development Associate: Ground-Up Projects

Macdonald & Company

Charleston (SC)

On-site

USD 65,000 - 90,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Macdonald & Company has exclusive engagement to appoint a Retail Development Associate in Charleston, SC, joining a growing development team focused on ground-up retail projects for national retailers. The role offers exposure across the full development lifecycle, from site selection through construction and delivery.

Ideal candidates bring 2–4 years in retail real estate development, with strong analytical, organizational and communication skills.

Qualifications

2-4 years of retail real estate development experience.
Experience with ground-up retail development including site selection, due diligence, entitlements and construction coordination.
Strong understanding of retail site selection methodology, zoning and commercial development processes.
Ability to read and interpret site plans, engineering drawings and construction documents.
Working knowledge of commercial real estate contracts, purchase agreements and development documentation.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
Experience with AutoCAD, Photoshop or similar design software is advantageous.
Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, Planning or a related discipline.
MBA, Juris Doctor or Real Estate License would be considered an advantage.
Self-motivated, detail-oriented and capable of managing multiple projects in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Willingness to travel occasionally throughout the Southeast as projects require.

Responsibilities

Assist with the sourcing, evaluation and execution of ground‑up retail development opportunities.
Conduct market research, demographic analysis, traffic studies and site selection for national retail clients.
Analyze zoning, market conditions and development constraints to identify suitable sites.
Prepare site feasibility studies and preliminary development layouts.
Support the negotiation of Letters of Intent and purchase agreements.
Coordinate all aspects of due diligence, including environmental assessments, surveys, geotechnical investigations and third‑party consultant reports.
Work closely with engineers, architects, attorneys, municipalities and contractors throughout the entitlement and development process.
Prepare project approval packages and supporting development materials.
Review site plans, civil drawings, construction budgets and project schedules.
Assist in managing projects through design, permitting, construction and final delivery.
Build strong relationships with brokers, landowners, consultants, contractors, municipal officials and national retailers.
Monitor project milestones, identify potential risks and ensure projects progress on schedule.