Development Associate

Development Associate

Founded in 2012, Dalian currently controls over 1,000 luxury multifamily units in San Antonio, TX and Philadelphia, PA, with additional projects under construction or in predevelopment in Pittsburgh, PA; Richmond, VA; and Raleigh, NC. Our strategy is to scale our multifamily platform across major U.S. markets through a rapidly growing pipeline. Dalian is part of the broader family of companies, including CloudHQ and WindHQ, known for an entrepreneurial approach, creative problem-solving, and a culture of ownership.

Dalian Development is building a national portfolio of long-term hold multifamily and mixed-use assets, and we're seeking a Development Associate who can combine rigorous underwriting skills with active involvement throughout design, entitlement, construction, and lease-up.

In this role, you'll work directly with senior leadership and contribute across the full development lifecycle. You will not be confined to financial analysis; you'll also engage in on-the-ground coordination, problem-solving, and project execution. With active projects under construction and a robust slate of predevelopment opportunities, this role offers significant growth potential as Dalian accelerates national expansion.

What You Will Get to Do

• Build and maintain pro formas and financial models for multifamily and mixed-use projects
• Conduct feasibility analyses, sensitivities, and return projections to support investment decisions
• Support coordination of architects, engineers, contractors, designers, zoning consultants, and property management partners
• Track project schedules, budgets, and key milestones; prepare regular variance analyses and recommendations
• Assist with entitlements and permitting across multiple jurisdictions
• Support full lifecycle activities including feasibility, financing, design, construction, and lease-up
• Prepare budget approval memos and project updates for senior management and investors
• Coordinate due diligence (title, survey, environmental, geotechnical, zoning analysis, market studies)
• Assist with financing activities including loan/equity documentation, draw requests, and lender reporting

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Finance, Business, Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience; 5+ years preferred
• Proven ability to build complex Excel financial models from scratch
• Strong analytical skills with an interest in applying them to real-world project execution
• Solid understanding of real estate finance, capital structures, and development fundamentals
• Strong written and visual communication skills (PowerPoint, memos, presentations)
• Willingness to travel 15%+
• Self-starter comfortable in an entrepreneurial, hands-on environment

Our Ideal Candidate Will Also Possess

• Financial Certifications such as CFA or ARGUS Enterprise
• Industry involvement (ULI, NAIOP, NMHC, etc.)
• Advanced Excel proficiency

What We Offer

Dalian's people and culture are the most enriching aspects that make us a great place to work. We are strengthened by industry experts who bring extensive knowledge, skill, and experience, leaders who bring vision, innovation and commitment to our people, and an expanding team of individuals who believe in that vision and bring their best to support their customers and team.

Our employees enjoy competitive compensation and rewarding incentives, comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability), 401(k) with match, 12 paid holidays, generous PTO, development opportunities, and the ability to closely impact and contribute to the growth of an exceptional organization.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Dalian is an equal employee opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or other legally protected status.