Development Project Manager

Job Summary
The Development Project Manager is responsible for supporting and managing the full pre-construction process for assigned new store development projects, from site handoff through construction start. This role handles hands‑on project coordination and execution, including developing and tracking schedules, managing project pacing, and supporting execution plans to help deliver projects on schedule, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals. The Development Project Manager partners closely with internal cross‑functional teams and external stakeholders, emphasizing landlord coordination, entitlements, permitting, and clear communication. The role operates under the guidance of a Senior Manager, Development while owning day‑to‑day project details and follow‑through.

Job Responsibilities And Duties

Manage assigned development projects from site handoff through construction start, supporting overall schedules, landlord deliverables, entitlements, and permitting activities.

Develop and maintain project execution plans and schedules, tracking timelines and key milestones in alignment with landlord delivery requirements and departmental priorities.

Monitor project progress and day‑to‑day tasks, proactively identifying risks or blockers and escalating issues to leadership as needed to maintain schedule, budget, and quality targets.

Serve as a primary day‑to‑day point of contact for assigned projects, coordinating with internal teams, external consultants, and landlords under the guidance of senior development leadership.

Coordinate cross‑functionally with real estate, design, permitting, pre‑construction, and construction teams to support task resolution and ensure timely completion of project requirements.

Maintain and update project schedules, budgets, and status reports for assigned projects; communicate risks, changes, and delays clearly to senior leadership.

Support entitlement and permitting activities for assigned sites, coordinating with consultants, municipalities, and internal partners to advance approvals.

Participate in regional pipeline meetings; track assigned action items and support follow‑through.

Lead and support internal project kickoff meetings and due diligence reviews for assigned projects, assisting with preparation, documentation, and next‑step tracking.

Establish and monitor development budgets for assigned projects, flagging variances or concerns to leadership.

Attend project meetings and provide clear updates on schedules, risks, and outstanding actions for projects.

Conduct site visits as needed to verify landlord work progress and assist in coordinating resolution of deficiencies.

Contribute to process improvement initiatives by providing feedback and insights based on hands‑on project execution experience.

Collaborate closely with the Permitting Manager and broader permitting team, supporting alignment and information flow for assigned projects.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.

Strong understanding of end‑to‑end development processes, with expertise in entitlements and permitting.

Experience developing and executing project schedules, pacing, and project execution plans.

Exceptional communication, organization, and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

Ability to operate effectively with direction while managing day‑to‑day execution independently.

Proficiency in project tracking tools and scheduling software; Excel and Microsoft Office required.

Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, and Bluebeam preferred.

Domestic travel required.

Education Requirements
Bachelor's Degree

Education or Certificate Details
Degree in Real Estate, Construction, Architecture, Interior Design or Engineering

Work Experience
4‑6 years of progressive experience in real estate development, design project management, construction project management, or related field managing multiple concurrent projects in a fast‑paced environment.

Related Experience

Real Estate Development

Construction

Project Management

Architecture/Engineering

Tenant Coordination

Permitting and Entitlements

Physical Requirements

Precise hand/eye coordination

Basic keyboarding or other repetitive motions

Benefits At Shake Shack

Weekly Pay and Performance bonuses

Shake Shack Meal Discounts

Exclusive corporate discounts for travel, electronics, wellness, leisure activities and more

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance*

Employer Paid Life and Disability Insurance*

401k Plan with Company Match*

Paid Time Off*

Paid Parental Leave*

Access to Employee Assistance Program on Day 1

Pre‑Tax Commuter and Parking Benefits

Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts*

Development and Growth Opportunities

Eligibility criteria applies

Pay Range - $103,050.00 - $135,300.00

Shake Shack is an Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic, including race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability (mental and physical), sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital, military and veteran status.

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