Development Project Manager

Acara Solutions is seeking a Development Project Manager in Williamsville, NY!

This is an ownership-side role focused on development and construction oversight. The Development Project Manager will work closely with senior leadership and serve as a key liaison between ownership, institutional partners, design teams, and General Contractors.

This is not a traditional General Contractor Project Manager position. Instead of direct subcontractor management, the role emphasizes financial oversight, reporting, coordination, and high-level project management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage industrial and commercial development projects from preconstruction through closeout.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, General Contractors, and institutional stakeholders.
• Assist in managing project budgets, including cost tracking, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Support GMP reviews, change order evaluation, and contract administration.
• Review and reconcile monthly pay applications against approved budgets and forecasts.
• Monitor project schedules and milestone performance.
• Participate in OAC meetings and maintain executive-level reporting documentation.
• Assist with project entitlements, permitting, and agency coordination.
• Identify project risks early and proactively escalate issues to senior leadership.

* Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
* 7+ years of commercial or industrial construction experience.
* Exposure to projects exceeding $30M strongly preferred.
* Strong financial aptitude and comfort working within detailed budgets and cost reports.
* Working knowledge of GMP contracts and change management processes.
* Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and project schedules.
* Strong communication skills and professional presence.
* Organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple concurrent priorities.