Real Estate Operations Analyst

Real Estate Operations Analyst | Cottonwood Residential

Company Overview

Cottonwood Residential is a forward-thinking company that believes focusing on the customer is key. Whether it's our Self-Guided Tour program that meets every customer where they are, leveraging AI across all areas of our business to improve response time, extending hours to better serve our customers, or emphasizing teamwork, our culture is built on innovation and service excellence.

Job Summary

The Real Estate Operations Analyst role is an entry to mid-level position that will play a key role in supporting the operations and property management departments by providing advanced data analysis, reporting, and field support. This position assists with weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting, including roll-up reports and performance dashboards. The Analyst will also help manage and enhance our Business Intelligence (BI) reporting platform and evaluate the impact and performance of AI initiatives across the portfolio. The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and passionate about improving operational efficiency through data and technology. They must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, capable of managing multiple projects, and willing to travel up to 50% for on-site due diligence, inspections, and report presentations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting and Analysis

• Prepare and distribute weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual operational and financial performance reports.
• Collaborate with operations leadership to compile roll-up reporting across multiple portfolios.
• Build and maintain BI dashboards and data visualizations that track key performance indicators.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, opportunities, and risk areas for property and portfolio optimization.
• Provide ad hoc reporting and analysis as needed to support strategic decision-making.

AI and Technology Integration

• Assist in tracking and reporting the impact and performance of AI initiatives.
• Support the implementation and enhancement of AI-driven tools in leasing, maintenance, and customer service.

Due Diligence and On-Site Support

• Travel to communities during acquisitions, dispositions, or special projects to assist with physical inspections and operational due diligence as requested.
• Prepare inspection summaries, financial and operational findings, and final roll-up reports for executive review.
• Support property and regional teams with benchmarking, variance analysis, and audit preparation.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with all departments and teams to ensure data accuracy and timely reporting.
• Present findings and recommendations in written and verbal formats to leadership.
• Participate in portfolio review meetings and provide insights to improve operational outcomes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Real Estate, Data Analytics, or a related field.
• 2–5 years of experience in property management operations, business intelligence, or financial analysis.
• Strong understanding of property management financials, key metrics, and operational workflows.
• Experience with BI/reporting platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Entrata Insights, or similar).
• Familiarity with artificial intelligence applications or process automation tools preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; strong data management and visualization skills.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication abilities.
• Willingness to travel up to 25-50% depending on the need for site visits, inspections, and due diligence.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus.
• Full health, vision, dental, life, and disability benefits.
• Generous 401(k) and HSA company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.