The Albany County Land Bank is seeking a strategic and mission-driven Development Specialist to lead funding efforts that support impactful community development and affordable housing initiatives. This role is ideal for a motivated professional with a strong background in housing development finance, grant writing, and predevelopment coordination. The Development Manager will play a key role in identifying and securing funding, managing grants, and ensuring the financial viability of projects that advance the Land Bank’s mission of revitalizing neighborhoods and fostering equitable development across Albany County.
The Development Specialist plays a critical role in advancing the Albany County Land Bank's mission by identifying, securing, and managing funding for community development projects. This position requires a strategic thinker with deep understanding of housing development finance, grant management expertise, and the ability to navigate complex predevelopment processes. The Development Manager will serve as a key liaison between the Land Bank and funding partners while ensuring projects have the financial foundation necessary for successful completion.
Development SPECIALIST
Key Responsibilities
Funding Identification and Acquisition
Research, identify, and pursue federal, state, local, and private funding opportunities that align with the Land Bank's community development objectives
Develop and maintain relationships with funding partners, including government agencies, foundations, and private investors
Prepare compelling grant applications, proposals, and funding requests with supporting documentation
Monitor funding landscapes and emerging opportunities in community development and housing finance
Financial Analysis and Project Development
Assess financial feasibility of proposed development projects across all stages and scales
Develop comprehensive project budgets and financial models for housing development initiatives
Analyze funding gaps and recommend strategies to achieve project viability
Collaborate with development team to structure financially sound project approaches
Grant and Fund Management
Oversee awarded grants and funding agreements, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions
Manage grant reporting requirements, documentation, and communication with funders
Track project expenditures and maintain accurate financial records for all funded initiatives
Coordinate with finance and accounting teams to ensure proper fund administration
Predevelopment Leadership
Lead predevelopment activities including site assessment, feasibility studies, and community engagement
Coordinate with architects, engineers, environmental consultants, and other professionals during project planning phases
Navigate regulatory requirements and permitting processes
Develop project timelines and coordinate predevelopment activities with various stakeholders
Project Support and Coordination
Provide ongoing funding-related support as projects advance through development phases
Monitor and address funding requirements throughout project lifecycle
Coordinate with construction management teams on funding-related project requirements
Ensure projects maintain compliance with funder requirements during implementation
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in finance, public administration, urban planning, real estate development, or related field; Master's degree preferred
Minimum 5 years of experience in grant writing, fund development, or community development finance
Demonstrated experience with housing development projects and associated financing mechanisms
Technical Skills
Proven track record of successful grant applications and fund acquisition
Strong financial analysis capabilities including budget development and financial modeling
Knowledge of federal, state, and local housing and community development programs
Experience with predevelopment processes and project feasibility assessment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, financial software, and project management tools
Professional Competencies
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to present complex financial information clearly
Strong relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders including government officials, community leaders, and funding partners
Detail-oriented approach with strong organizational and project management capabilities
Ability to work independently while maintaining collaborative relationships across teams
Understanding of affordable housing development, community revitalization, and land bank operations
Preferred Qualifications
Professional certification in grant writing or fund development
Experience working with land banks, housing authorities, or community development corporations
Knowledge of New York State housing programs and funding mechanisms
Experience with historic preservation projects and associated tax credit programs
Bilingual capabilities reflecting Albany County's diverse communities
Working Conditions
Office-based position with regular field visits to project sites
Standard business hours with occasional evening or weekend work for community meetings or deadline requirements
Travel within Albany County and occasionally to state capital or funding partner locations
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Professional development opportunities
Paid time off and holiday schedule
Salary
$60,000 - $65,000 per year
How to Apply
All interested candidates are encouraged to complete the application available at the following link: Development Specialist at Albany County Land Bank Corporation
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Albany County Land Bank Corporation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.