Housing Development Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of rapid urbanization, the role of Housing Development Officers has become increasingly important.

As societies expand, the demand for dedicated professionals who can plan, implement, and manage housing projects continues to grow.

But what is really expected from a Housing Development Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of housing development,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Housing Development Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Housing Development Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Housing Development Officers are responsible for the planning, management, and implementation of affordable housing projects.

They play a pivotal role in addressing housing needs and improving the quality of life in their community.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Identify and assess potential sites for housing development
• Develop and maintain relationships with local government, private developers, and non-profit organizations to facilitate housing projects
• Prepare and manage budgets for housing projects
• Coordinate and oversee the planning and construction process of housing projects
• Apply for funding and grants to finance housing projects
• Ensure housing projects comply with local, state, and federal regulations
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing market trends and legislations
• Prepare and present reports on project progress and milestones
• Organize and lead community outreach programs to gather public opinion and support for housing projects

 

Housing Development Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and capable Housing Development Officer to be responsible for the development and implementation of housing projects.

The Housing Development Officer’s responsibilities include conducting feasibility studies, site inspections, project management, liaising with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with housing regulations and standards.

The ideal candidate for this role should possess a strong understanding of housing development, project management skills, and have a strong commitment to creating affordable and quality housing solutions.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and implement housing development projects from inception to completion
• Conduct site inspections and feasibility studies
• Liaise with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders
• Ensure all housing projects comply with local and national housing regulations
• Prepare and manage project budgets
• Coordinate with local authorities and communities
• Conduct market research and keep abreast of housing trends
• Prepare reports and presentations for management and stakeholders
• Contribute to the development of housing policies and strategies

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Housing Development Officer or similar role
• Knowledge of housing development and project management
• Understanding of housing regulations and standards
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities
• BSc/BA in Urban Planning, Business Administration, Real Estate, or relevant field
• Project Management certification is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development
• Flexible working hours

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Housing Development Officer
• Work Environment: Office-based with frequent site visits. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Housing Development Manager or Director.
• Salary: Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Housing Development Officer Do?

Housing Development Officers work within the housing sector, typically for housing associations, local authorities or charities.

They are responsible for the development and management of affordable housing projects.

They work closely with architects, contractors, and local government officials to plan and implement housing schemes.

This involves assessing potential development sites, securing funding, managing budgets and coordinating construction projects.

Their job is to ensure that the housing projects they manage meet the needs of the community and are completed on time and within budget.

They are responsible for understanding the local housing market, anticipating housing needs and developing strategic housing plans.

Housing Development Officers also work with existing tenants, handling any issues or complaints, ensuring properties are well maintained and liaising with social services where necessary.

They often play a key role in creating sustainable communities, by ensuring that affordable, high-quality housing is available for those who need it.

They may also be involved in initiatives to promote affordable home ownership, manage social housing, or address homelessness within their communities.

 

Housing Development Officer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Housing Development Officer should possess the necessary skills and qualifications as per the job requirements, such as:

• Understanding of housing development and planning regulations to ensure all projects comply with local and national rules and regulations
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with local authorities, construction crews, architects, and residents
• Strong negotiation skills to reach beneficial agreements with contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders
• Ability to manage and coordinate projects, ensuring that all housing developments are completed on time and within budget
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues that might arise during the development process, such as delays, budget overruns, or design changes
• Interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with colleagues, partners, and community members
• Good understanding of building materials, construction methods, and housing trends to guide development projects effectively
• Project management skills to oversee multiple housing development projects simultaneously

 

Housing Development Officer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Housing Development Officers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles within housing development or related sectors such as real estate, urban planning, or civil engineering.

This provides them with the basic knowledge and understanding of housing policies, development processes, and management services.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are typically more proficient in project management and have more comprehensive understanding of housing development practices.

Their experience could have been gained in roles such as Housing Coordinator, Project Manager, or Community Development Assistant.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually expected to have developed strong strategic planning skills, possess extensive knowledge in housing legislation, and have a track record of managing multiple housing projects successfully.

They may have experience in senior roles such as Housing Development Manager or Housing Policy Analyst, and are often capable of handling higher-level responsibilities and leading teams in a housing development project.

 

Housing Development Officer Education and Training Requirements

Housing Development Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public policy, business administration, or a related field.

They need to have a strong understanding of real estate principles, urban development, project management, and community engagement.

Some positions, especially those in large urban areas or those dealing with complex development projects, may require Housing Development Officers to have a master’s degree in urban and regional planning or a related field.

Candidates can also benefit from gaining professional certifications such as the Certified Housing Development Professional (CHDP) or the Certified Affordable Housing Manager (CAHM).

These advanced degrees and certifications can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to the field, their knowledge of housing policies and laws, and their ability to manage large-scale projects.

In addition to formal education, Housing Development Officers need to have excellent communication and negotiation skills, as they often work with various stakeholders including government officials, community members, and private developers.

Continuing education and staying updated with the current housing laws, regulations and trends is also necessary for a successful career in this field.

 

Housing Development Officer Salary Expectations

A Housing Development Officer typically earns an average salary of $60,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary greatly depending on the level of experience, the size and location of the development projects, and the employing organization.

 

Housing Development Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Housing Development Officer need?

A Housing Development Officer should have strong analytical skills to identify and evaluate potential development opportunities.

They should possess excellent project management skills to oversee housing projects from inception to completion.

Communication and negotiation skills are also vital for liaising with stakeholders, contractors, and community members.

A good understanding of housing policies, regulations, and housing finance is also necessary.

 

Do Housing Development Officers need a degree?

Yes, most Housing Development Officers hold a degree in urban planning, business administration, public administration, or a related field.

Some positions may also require a master’s degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, or a related field.

Understanding housing laws and regulations, real estate development, and finance can be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a Housing Development Officer resume?

A Housing Development Officer’s resume should show a strong background in housing development or real estate, with a focus on project management.

Look for experience in coordinating and liaising with various stakeholders, such as government agencies, contractors, and community members.

Knowledge of housing policies and regulations, as well as budgeting and financial management skills, are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Housing Development Officer?

A good Housing Development Officer should be detail-oriented to manage complex housing projects effectively.

Strong negotiation skills are important for securing the best deals with contractors and suppliers.

They should be proactive, able to anticipate potential issues, and devise effective solutions.

Strong communication skills are essential to liaise with various stakeholders and to present project proposals and reports.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Housing Development Officer?

Hiring a Housing Development Officer can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique blend of skills, including project management, real estate knowledge, and understanding of housing policies and finance.

Additionally, the role often demands experience, making it harder to find qualified entry-level candidates.

Therefore, hiring for this role may require a thorough recruitment process, including detailed job postings, targeted search, and comprehensive interviews.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of what it means to be a Housing Development Officer.

Interesting, isn’t it?

It’s not just about building homes.

It’s about shaping communities, one housing project at a time.

Armed with our go-to Housing Development Officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on a new journey.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every brick laid, every home built, contributes to the wider community.

Let’s shape these communities. Together.

How to Become a Housing Development Officer (Complete Guide)

The Work Trend Wave: Jobs That Are Making Big Moves

Hot Tickets in the Job Market: Careers You Can’t Afford to Miss

AI’s Human Obstacle: Professions That Require More Than Algorithms

Transform Your Career: Fun Jobs That Also Pay the Bills