Project Manager

LUCHA is seeking a Project Manager to join the Community Development team in directing LUCHA’s pipeline of community-driven affordable housing development projects. With the oversight and support of LUCHA’s Director of Community Development and Executive Director, the Project Manager will oversee two or more developments at a time, advancing all aspects of the development process from concept development through acquisition, construction and initial occupancy. LUCHA’s 2023 development pipeline includes the adaptive reuse of a church in Logan Square, an 89-unit new construction development in Humboldt Park, and the development of a new office/community center. We’re seeking a committed and energetic individual aligned with LUCHA’s mission. An ideal candidate will enjoy collaborating with a team and have experience working in the real estate development field. Flexibility and creative problem-solving are key traits. LUCHA will invest in staff development through training and mentorship, and the individual in this role will have opportunity for growth and contribution to the department’s strategy and direction. Specific and essential duties of the Project Manager may include:

Oversee project conception, site and market research, zoning analysis, and financial feasibility.

Prepare and maintain project budgets, operating proformas, and schedules. Assemble and manage the development team. Oversee design process to achieve project goals within project budgets and funding requirements.

Lead all aspects of project financing, including identifying funding sources, completing funding applications, liaising with project funders and syndicators, and managing closings and acquisitions. Funding applications may include for-profit and not-for-profit lenders, City of Chicago and IHDA Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB), City of Chicago TIF, and others.

Lead all aspects of project construction including contractor selection and negotiation, draw meetings and site visits, and construction draws.

Engage local community organizers and leaders, tenants and neighbors, and elected officials to build support for projects. Lead public presentations and prepare materials for external communications.

Duties as assigned by the Executive Director and the Director of Community Development.

2 Qualifications and Skills: Candidates must have:

3 or more years of experience in real estate development, real estate finance, construction, architecture, urban planning or other related field, with progressively responsible work managing complex projects or initiatives. A master’s degree in urban planning, architecture, business or other related field can be substituted for one year of experience.

Experience managing substantial portions of 1-2 real estate development projects. Examples of involvement could include proforma analysis, preparing or evaluating financing applications, real estate closings, design, and construction scoping and budgeting.

Familiarity with affordable housing and the regulations and financing applicable to the industry, especially the LIHTC program.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Experience writing memos, narratives, presentations and financing and grant applications.

Experience working effectively in a team environment and building relationships with people of diverse cultural, economic and racial backgrounds.

Integrity and commitment to LUCHA’s mission and values. Strong candidates will have one or more of the following:

3 or more years of experience working on LIHTC or other affordable rental housing developments.

Experience with community engagement, including presentations to the public, elected officials and other stakeholders.

Bilingual (English and Spanish) writing and speaking skills.

Direct experience working with housing finance programs and agencies such as LIHTC, HUD, IHDA, and the City of Chicago Department of Housing.

Experience with sustainable design and green building certification programs. Job Requirements:

Ability to travel and attend occasional meetings on weeknights or weekends.

Accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities who otherwise meet the position qualifications and requirements. This position regularly requires the employee to sit, stand, speak, and operate a personal computer. Occasionally, walking and lifting up to 30 pounds may be required. The employee may be required to access sites and buildings under construction, which requires balance and ability to climb as needed.

LUCHA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and an equal opportunity employer.

Current COVID-19 policies include mandatory vaccination. At this time, the position is a hybrid role with scheduled days working from home and working from LUCHA’s office each week. Benefits include medical, dental, vision and 401(k) employer match.