Associate

Working at B&D means more than just having a job; it means building a career. Explore a future with B&D, which offers exceptional benefits, a collaborative multidisciplinary approach, an inclusive environment, and ample opportunities for career advancement. Since 1993, Brailsford & Dunlavey has empowered colleges and universities, municipalities, and mission-driven organizations to achieve their bold visions through the built environment. We are seeking an Associate to join our Austin, Texas office on a hybrid basis to initially support our Higher Education Advisory practice. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in development, feasibility, and planning who can lead projects from early strategy through implementation. This position will play a key role in managing development advisory assignments, including public-private partnerships (P3's), feasibility studies, implementation planning, and real estate strategy, while also supporting institutions during the earliest stages of planning and decision-making. You may come from a developer, institutional owner’s representative, or advisory background , and understand how to bridge vision with execution. What You’ll Do Lead planning and development advisory engagements for higher education clients Manage feasibility studies, implementation strategies, and public-private partnership initiatives Serve as a trusted advisor to institutional leadership throughout project planning and execution Oversee market research, financial modeling, development analysis, and stakeholder engagement Translate complex data into clear recommendations that clients can act on Guide project teams and coordinate internal and external contributors Manage project scope, budgets, invoicing, and overall financial performance Maintain quality control and ensure client deliverables are thoughtful, accurate, and timely Support business development through relationship building and new opportunity identification Strengthen internal tools, processes, and development methodologies across the practice Bring ownership and accountability to each engagement Help clients navigate ambiguity with confidence and structure Balance strategic thinking with practical execution Mentor junior team members and elevate the quality of project work Build trust through clear communication and sound judgment What We're Seeking Finance Economics Construction Management or related field (Master’s preferred) 5+ years of experience in development, feasibility, real estate advisory, owner’s representation, or institutional planning Strong understanding of development economics, financial modeling, capital planning, and public-private partnerships Experience leading multiple projects simultaneously Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word Strong presentation and client communication skills Demonstrated leadership and mentoring capabilityCommitment to professionalism and client service excellence Willingness to travel as needed What Sets You Apart You may be someone who has worked for: A development advisory firm An owner’s representative firm You understand how to move projects forward—not just analyze them. And you want to apply that experience to work that has a meaningful, long-term impact on institutions and communities. Salary and Benefits This role's target base annual salary range is currently $100,000-125,000. Pay scales are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education, experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate, and pay relative to other team members. Competitive compensation, strong benefits, and flexibility in a hybrid environment. 100% company-paid medical, prescription, and dental insurance premiums for employees and their children Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses Company-paid contributions to 401(k) retirement accounts Flextime and telecommuting Parental leave Voluntary vision insurance Company-paid disability and life insurance Vacation, sick, and holiday pay Adoption assistance program Reimbursement for professional memberships/certifications Learning & Development department dedicated to providing in-house training Employee assistance program Corporate fitness center access at most locations Cell phone reimbursement Wellness Committee and wellness-based programming Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work 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. If you have a disability and you believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an online application, please e-mail humanresources@bdconnect.com. Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. participates in E-Verify. #J-18808-Ljbffr