Director of Land Development at J.A. Watts, Incorporated – Lisle, Illinois

J. A. Watts, LLC (JWI) is a woman-founded professional services firm that believes in treating its clients and employees like family at every level of our company. Our family culture is what we’re known for, and we work to stay true to who we are. That’s how we manage our projects and how we recruit THE Best People in our industry. Our clients come from all walks of life, and so do we, making us stronger together.

The Director of Land Development leads the planning, design, and execution of residential, commercial, and public development projects, with responsibility for project performance, budgets, schedules, and client satisfaction. This role manages multidisciplinary project teams, serves as the primary client contact, and partners with senior leadership to deliver departmental and business objectives. The Director of Land Development mentors and develops technical staff, fosters a high-performing team culture aligned with the Company’s Mission, Vision, and Values, and applies a strong design engineering background to complex projects. The position also supports business development through client relationship management, identification of new opportunities, and strategic growth initiatives, working closely with the Vice President of Specialty Projects and the Department Senior Vice President. The role requires a minimum of three days per week in the Lisle office or at project sites, with remote candidates considered.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Secure new business by gathering client intel, identifying opportunities to submit on RFPs/RFQs, developing and negotiating contracts, and integrating contract requirements with business operations
• Build and maintain strong, long-lasting client relationships to support and cultivate business opportunities by effectively communicating the business’s value to prospective clients and partners through presentations, meetings, and proposals
• Oversee project budgets, create, and manage project forecasts, schedules and expenses; anticipate potential changes to budget, schedule, and expenses and provide guidance and analysis of changes
• Partner with internal teams including Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting/Finance, Contracts Administration, and Safety, in order to augment and facilitate business development and operational practices to effectively lead, staff, and execute project(s) successfully
• Coach, mentor, and develop employees by providing oversight, training, direction, and performance feedback in accordance with organizational policies and procedures
• Contribute to a workplace culture that is consistent with the company’s mission, vision, and core values in every internal and external interaction
• Identify and acquire necessary project resources internally and externally
• Oversee projects that may include site grading, road design, storm water conveyance, quantity and quality modeling, sewer conveyance system design, water conveyance system design, erosion and Sediment Control system design, land entitlement and site layout
• Review and approve technical documents, design plans, cost estimates, and proposals
• Communicate project details, including plans, progress, issues, and concerns to the executive leadership team on a regular basis
• Attend events and participate in various industry, professional, and networking associations

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program
• 10+ years of professional experience managing land development projects through all phases, from inception to completion
• Private project experience required
• Professional Engineer (PE) license, or ability to obtain within one year of employment
• Active membership in land development–related industry organizations preferred
• Valid driver’s license with ability to travel for site visits
• Strong ability to develop and implement effective solutions related to process efficiency, project costs, budgeting, team development, and client needs
• Proven leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across all organizational levels and with clients
• Demonstrated experience developing and initiating business development opportunities, including strategic planning efforts
• Design management experience preferred
• High level of business acumen with a solid understanding of management functions for multi-disciplinary teams
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with managers, peers, direct reports, and diverse personalities
• Strong problem-solving and solution-oriented approach
• High-level proficiency with relevant software, including Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Bluebeam

Company Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance options for employees and family
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Account options available
• Company-provided group life, short and long-term disability, and voluntary life options
• Matching 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible work schedules
• Student debt repayment resources available
• Professional development and tuition assistance
• ID Theft protection
• Company-sponsored social events

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.