Housing Development Specialist

Location: Town of Vail, CO
Salary Range: $84,200 - $126,300 (DOE)
Department: Housing
FLSA Status: Exempt

Shape the Future of Housing in Vail!

Are you driven by a passion for housing development and making a meaningful impact in your community? The Town of Vail is looking for an innovative and results-oriented Housing Development Specialist to play a crucial role in shaping the town’s housing landscape.

Reporting directly to the Housing Director, you will spearhead efforts to expand and enhance affordable housing opportunities. This position offers a dynamic mix of project planning, policy development, and housing program coordination, requiring close collaboration with Town leadership, community stakeholders, and regional partners.

In this role, you will:
✔️ Lead affordable housing initiatives from concept to completion, ensuring they align with the Town’s long-term vision.
✔️ Analyze and implement housing policies to support sustainable development and accessibility.
✔️ Oversee construction administration and project management for new and existing housing developments.
✔️ Identify and secure grant funding and financing solutions to expand deed-restricted housing options.
✔️ Engage with local agencies and developers to drive forward-thinking housing solutions.

If you have a strong background in housing policy, construction administration, grant funding, and financing strategies for deed-restricted housing, this is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact in one of the most sought-after mountain communities in the country.

Join us in building a thriving and inclusive Vail—apply today!

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage affordable housing development projects, including planning, entitlements, financing, construction administration, and property management.
• Review and manage construction budgets, draw requests, and financial documents related to housing development.
• Interpret and analyze architectural, civil, and construction plans for compliance with affordable housing requirements.
• Develop and implement housing policies, programs, and public initiatives to support affordable housing goals.
• Foster collaboration between public and private sector housing developers, stakeholders, and funding agencies.
• Research and identify funding opportunities, including grants, tax credits, partnerships, and financing structures, to leverage public funds for housing projects.
• Identify new construction opportunities as well as rehabilitation, repurposing, and renovation of existing developments.
• Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively based on the Town’s housing needs and strategic goals.
• Conduct research, analyze housing data, and prepare comprehensive reports and presentations for Town leadership, Planning Commission, and community stakeholders.
• Enforce deed restrictions, housing policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Navigate stressful or confrontational situations requiring negotiation, counseling, and conflict resolution while maintaining a high level of customer service.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, planning commissions, governmental agencies, developers, and the general public.
• Exercise independent judgment in routine and complex decision-making scenarios.
• Promote workplace safety and implement sound risk management practices.
• Utilize social media, websites, and visual communication tools for community engagement and public outreach.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Training:

• Bachelor’s degree in Housing Development, Urban Planning, Real Estate, Finance, Public Administration, Community Development, Construction Management, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree in a related field is preferred.

Experience & Skills:

• Minimum of 5 to 7 years of progressively responsible experience in affordable housing development, multi-family housing construction, property management, real estate finance, public administration, or community development.
• Supervisory or leadership experience preferred, including oversight of consultants, project teams, or housing initiatives.
• Strong experience in complex project financing, grants, tax credit programs, and public-private housing partnerships.
• Demonstrated experience negotiating and managing contracts related to housing development, property acquisition, or affordable housing projects.
• Proficiency in data analysis, housing market research, and policy evaluation to inform housing program strategies.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, for financial modeling and reporting.
• Familiarity with GIS, housing program software, and financial modeling tools is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders, including elected officials, developers, and community members, in high-level discussions and negotiations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to deliver professional presentations and reports to various audiences.
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License (or ability to obtain upon hire).

Why Work for the Town of Vail?

The Town of Vail is a world-class mountain community with a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and housing affordability. As an employee, you will be part of a forward-thinking municipality that values collaboration and excellence. Our team is dedicated to addressing housing challenges and improving the quality of life for our residents.

Employee Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary and robust benefits package.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement plans with employer contributions.

• Generous paid time off, including vacation and holidays.

• Professional development and career growth opportunities.

• Access to Town recreation facilities and employee wellness programs.

• The opportunity to work in a scenic alpine environment with an unbeatable lifestyle.