Development Project Manager

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At Shake Shack, our mission is to Stand For Something Good in all that we do. From our teams to our neighborhoods, we're committed to always doing the right thing. As one of the fastest-growing hospitality brands, we're all about crafting unforgettable experiences for our guests. We offer endless learning opportunities and the chance to make a lasting impact on our business, restaurants, and communities. As a member of the #ShackFam, you’ll have access to hands-on mentorship, training, and growth potential, all in a fun and inclusive environment.

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Job Summary 

The Development Project Manager is responsible for supporting and managing the full pre-construction process for assigned new store development projects, from site handoff through construction start. This role is responsible for hands-on project coordination and execution, including developing and tracking schedules, managing project pacing, and supporting execution plans to help deliver projects on schedule, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals. The Development Project Manager partners closely with internal cross-functional teams and external stakeholders to support project delivery, with an emphasis on landlord coordination, entitlements, permitting, and clear communication. This role operates with guidance from the Senior Manager, Development while owning day-to-day project details and follow-through. 

Job Responsibilities and Duties 

• Manage assigned development projects from site handoff through construction start, supporting overall schedules, landlord deliverables, entitlements, and permitting activities. 

• Develop and maintain project execution plans and schedules for assigned projects, tracking timelines and key milestones in alignment with landlord delivery requirements and departmental priorities. 

• Monitor project progress and day-to-day tasks, proactively identifying risks or blockers and escalating issues to leadership as needed to maintain schedule, budget, and quality targets. 

• Serve as a primary day-to-day point of contact for assigned projects, coordinating with internal teams, external consultants, and landlords under the guidance of senior development leadership. 

• Coordinate cross-functionally with real estate, design, permitting, pre-construction, and construction teams to support task resolution and ensure timely completion of project requirements. 

• Maintain and update project schedules, budgets, and status reports for assigned projects; communicate risks, changes, and delays clearly to senior leadership. 

• Support entitlement and permitting activities for assigned sites, coordinating with consultants, municipalities, and internal partners to advance approvals. 

• Participate in regional pipeline meetings; track assigned action items and support follow-through. 

• Lead and support internal project kickoffs meetings and due diligence reviews for assigned projects, assisting with preparation, documentation, and next-step tracking. 

• Establish and monitor development budgets for assigned projects, flagging variances or concerns to leadership. 

• Attend project meetings and pr