Development Associate

Description

Job Title: Development Associate

Company: PLK Communities
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Status: Full-Time | In-Office

About Us

PLK Communities is a Cincinnati-based real estate development company specializing in market-rate multifamily and mixed-use projects. We are committed to revitalizing communities, elevating design standards, and delivering long-term value through thoughtful development. As we grow, we’re seeking a Development Associate to support our pipeline of impactful projects across the region.

Position Summary

We’re seeking a Development Associate to join our growing team in Cincinnati. This role supports all stages of the real estate development process, from early due diligence through entitlement, construction, and turnover. It’s ideal for a high-potential candidate looking to grow into a full Developer role over time. You’ll work directly with senior leadership and help deliver impactful, community-centered projects across the region.

Responsibilities

Permitting, Zoning & Due Diligence

• Conduct due diligence, including zoning reviews, title analysis, utility research, and environmental report summaries.
• Prepare and present entitlement applications (rezoning, variances, site plan approvals, etc.).
• Represent PLK at public hearings, neighborhood meetings, and municipal board sessions.
• Coordinate with local officials, consultants, and community stakeholders to advance approvals.
• Track and maintain entitlement documents and ensure all conditions of approval are met.

Project Management

• Assist with project schedules, budgets, and development timelines.
• Coordinate meetings, deliverables, and action items across internal teams and consultants.
• Monitor hard and soft costs against pro formas and identify any budget variances.
• Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and internal teams on deliverables.
• Identify potential project risks and escalate to the Chief Development Officer.

Project Turnover & Closeout

• Prepare and submit closeout materials to city agencies and stakeholders.
• Ensure all pre-turnover requirements have been satisfied.
• Organize and deliver turnover packages to property management teams.

Site Acquisition & Scouting

· Research new development opportunities within target markets.

· Analyze zoning, access, infrastructure, and market context to assess site viability.

· Present findings and site recommendations to the internal development team.

Additional Duties

• Assist with special initiatives, including internal reporting, presentations, and community engagement.
• Provide ongoing updates to senior leadership and contribute to team-wide knowledge sharing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• 1–3+ years of relevant experience in real estate development, planning, permitting, or construction management preferred.
• Local to the Greater Cincinnati area (required); relocation not offered.
• Strong working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint).
• Comfort speaking in public in front of community groups or boards, as needed.
• Strong time management, organization, and attention to detail.
• Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment.
• Passion for community-building and real estate impact.

Why PLK Communities?

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Direct exposure to leadership and meaningful responsibilities from day one
• High-impact projects with regional recognition
• Clear path for growth into a full Developer role
• Collaborative, entrepreneurial team environment