Senior Project Manager (Community Development + Housing)

Harris & Associates•Irvine, CA

1d•$145 - $175•Hybrid

About The Position

Our Community Development + Housing team partners with municipalities to plan, analyze, and implement solutions that strengthen communities. We provide end-to-end support—from policy development and financial feasibility analysis to funding acquisition and project implementation—helping clients identify the strategies, programs, and investments that will have the greatest impact. Our work includes: Housing planning for market-rate and affordable housing, including housing strategies and implementation support Community development planning and advisory services Financial and economic analysis for residential development Grant writing and grant administration Research and policy analysis to support housing and development initiatives We are seeking a Senior Project Manager to help grow our Community Development + Housing team. This role is ideal for a leader who brings deep technical expertise, values long-term client partnerships, and is eager to contribute to business development while mentoring and developing staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business, Real Estate, Housing, or a related field.
8+ years of progressive experience in community development and housing consulting, including leadership on projects involving affordable housing development, housing elements, housing finance analysis (e.g., inclusionary housing studies), public outreach, and data-driven policy or planning work.
Demonstrated ability to lead multiple concurrent projects and teams while maintaining accountability for outcomes and deliverables.
Strong executive-level communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, persuasive written materials and present complex information to senior staff, elected officials, and other decision-makers.
Advanced analytical and writing skills, including high proficiency in Microsoft Excel and report development.
Excellent presentation skills with experience presenting to diverse audiences and responding to questions.
Proven commitment to exceptional client service, with a proactive, solutions-oriented, and collaborative leadership approach.
Sound judgment, independence, and a consistent track record of high-quality work.
Willingness to travel occasionally within California.
Alignment with Harris’ Purpose, Vision, and Shared Values.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in Economics, Business, Real Estate, Housing, or a related field.
Deep technical expertise providing senior-level review and guidance related to: Housing funding and finance strategies Redevelopment and revitalization projects Loan and legal document review Affordable housing pro formas, plans, and programs
Established professional relationships and experience working with jurisdictions in California and other western states (e.g., Washington, Nevada), with the ability to leverage those relationships to support project success and business growth.

Responsibilities

Lead the successful delivery of complex projects from initiation through completion, with full accountability for scope, schedule, budget, and quality.
Serve as the primary client relationship manager, fostering trust, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring clear communication and follow-through.
Shape project strategy and recommend innovative, practical approaches to achieve client objectives.
Direct, review, and approve all project deliverables, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and high professional standards.
Lead client meetings and public outreach and engagement efforts, including presentations to elected officials, planning commissions, city councils, governing boards, and community stakeholders.
Contribute to firm growth through strategic business development activities, including client relationship development, proposal leadership, and interview participation.
Manage and lead the preparation of General Plan Housing Elements and related policy and planning efforts.
Manage and lead other advisory services, including but not limited to affordable housing underwriting, drafting and negotiation of development agreements, and other financial analysis of housing development.
Lead, mentor, and develop staff, fostering professional growth and maintaining a culture of excellence and collaboration.