Design Development Associate

JOB SUMMARY

The Design Development Associate supports the Development team on the execution of pre-development activities for SoLa’s ground-up real estate development projects. The Design Development Associate assists in the entire pre-construction process for assigned projects, including analysis of potential acquisitions, procuring due diligence reports, developing the project design, securing approvals from the city and other government agencies, and coordinating a smooth hand-off to the Construction team for demo and construction.

*Salary Range: $100,000-$115,000*

ABOUT THE COMPANY

SoLa Impact is an award-winning social impact, development, and investment company focused exclusively on creating high-quality affordable housing in low-income, Black and brown communities. Over the last several years, we have raised almost $500 million in equity --- allowing us to deploy well over $1.5 billion – toward addressing the housing crisis in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California. Founded with the belief that smart investment can drive socioeconomic change, SoLa Impact focuses on creating sustainable, dignified living environments that empower residents and uplift neighborhoods. Only five years after starting its first ground-up project, SoLa Impact was recognized as the 16th largest developer in the nation, and the largest developer based in California by the National Multifamily Housing Council. 

As part of SoLa Impact's broader mission to create social and economic opportunities, our innovative co-working and entrepreneurship hub The Beehive serves as a catalyst for change, empowering local entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses and contribute to the revitalization of their neighborhoods. At SoLa Impact, we believe that socioeconomic advancement is a right, not a privilege, and we are committed to making this vision a reality. Join us and be part of a high-achieving team that not only focuses on building affordable housing, but creating opportunities and hope for a better future.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Collaborate with the Acquisitions team on due diligence research on potential sites
• Evaluate the feasibility of potential sites and determine the scope of new developments
• Conduct site visits to assess benefits and obstacles of a particular property
• Work with the Investments team to underwrite the project and manage the project budget
• Coordinate with architects to review and approve architectural plans and construction documents
• Coordinate with design consultants and vendors (survey, environmental, geotechnical, etc.)
• Obtain entitlements, permits, and other project approvals for assigned projects in a timely and cost-effective manner
• Collaborate with the Construction team for site demolition and construction
• Create internal presentations to colleagues, other departments, executives; and external presentations to investors, policy makers, community members, and other third-party groups

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• M1-3 years of experience in Real Estate Development, Architecture, Construction, or related field
• College degree in Real Estate, Architecture, Construction Management, Urban Planning, or related field or equivalent experience
• Familiarity with zoning and building codes, architectural plans, entitlements, and permitting
• Construction knowledge/experience is a plus
• Construction knowledge/experience required

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with excellent follow-through
• Willingness to take on new tasks and quickly learn the ropes
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment
• Ability to collaborate with others and use critical thinking skills to identify quality solutions
• Well-developed time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Inquisitive, resourceful, proactive, creative, and detail-oriented
• Ability to prepare reports and presentations in a concise and easy-to-understand manner
• Strong research skills with the ability to dig into technical details (e.g. zoning and building code, architectural plans, and reports)
• Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite; Proficiency Adobe Suite and/or Bluebeam is a plus
• Reliable transportation
• Passionate about our mission

Benefits

SoLa Impact offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid vacation, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as pet insurance, sick leave, 10 paid holidays, and bereavement days. This package is designed to provide employees with a range of important benefits that help to support their physical and emotional well-being, while also providing financial protection and peace of mind.

At SoLa Impact, we believe work environment, culture, and the opportunity to learn and grow are key elements when considering a new job. We are just the right size to provide the resources and support you need without the bureaucracy of a large corporate environment. We foster a family-friendly and supportive workplace, collaborative and employee-focused with an emphasis on quality, integrity, trust, and accountability. We are looking to bring someone on board as soon as possible. We provide a rewarding and challenging environment. We expect a lot, but give a lot in return. Strongly prefer candidates local to Los Angeles as no relocation assistance will be provided. All qualified candidates will be contacted directly.

SoLa Impact is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SoLa does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.