Development Operations Manager
This is an on-site position.
Salary Range: $75,000 –$88,000*
*Salary commensurate with education and experience
Benefits include Medical/Dental/Retirement/PTO
ABOUT US
The Saint Paul Port Authority is an economic engine for Saint Paul and the entire state of Minnesota. We redevelop underused land into thriving business centers to bring jobs and tax base to Saint Paul; offer finance tools to help Minnesota companies become more energy efficient and resilient; and manage the Saint Paul Harbor on the Mississippi River, providing jobs and connecting our region to a global marketplace.
THE POSITION
The Development Operations Manager provides leadership and oversight for 400 Wabasha (formerly Treasure Island Center) in downtown Saint Paul while managing CAM administration across the Port Authority’s portfolio. This role is responsible for delivering high-performing, tenant-focused building operations, including day-to-day management, financial oversight, vendor coordination, and tenant relations.
Serving as the primary point of contact for 400 Wabasha tenants, the Development Operations Manager ensures operational excellence, compliance, and high-quality tenant experience. The role also contributes to the strategic positioning of 400 Wabasha by supporting leasing efforts, managing tenant improvement projects, and identifying opportunities to enhance asset performance and value. The position also collaborates on redevelopment and capital improvement initiatives, offering a pathway to grow into a development associate, project manager, or broader real estate development role within the organization.
THE IDEAL FIT
You will stand out as a candidate if you are highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive, with strong technical knowledge of property management and financial acumen, and the ability to build productive relationships with tenants, vendors, and internal teams. You must thrive in a dynamic environment, enjoy problem-solving, and take pride in maintaining high standards for both physical assets and tenant relationships.
The ideal candidate is equally comfortable managing day-to-day operations and stepping into project-based work, and can balance day-to-day execution with long-term strategic priorities. You are comfortable managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment with an interest in expanding into real estate development and redevelopment initiatives and are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to impactful, community-focused development.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Property Management & Tenant Relations (400 Wabasha):
- Serve as the primary point of contact for 400 Wabasha tenants, responding to inquiries and ensuring a high level of service.
- Oversee daily building operations to maintain standards of safety, cleanliness, and functionality.
- Monitor tenant compliance with lease terms and building policies; address issues proactively.
- Conduct tenant meetings and regular site walkthroughs to support satisfaction and retention.
- Coordinate tenant move-ins, move-outs, and ongoing operational logistics.
Common Area Maintenance (CAM) Management Portfolio-Wide:
- Develop, manage, and reconcile annual CAM budgets across Port Authority properties.
- Communicate CAM costs, reconciliations, and allocations clearly to tenants.
- Track CAM billings and collections; follow up on outstanding balances.
- Ensure expenses align with lease terms and recoverable cost structures.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, consistency, and transparency in CAM processes.
Contracting & Vendor Managment
- Lead procurement, negotiation, and execution of service contracts (janitorial, security, maintenance, utilities, etc.).
- Manage vendor performance to ensure quality service delivery and compliance.
- Coordinate with internal stakeholders to align procurement with organizational policies.
- Monitor contract budgets, timelines, and performance outcomes.
Strategic Asset Management
- Support 400 Wabasha’s positioning as a premier mixed-use destination in downtown Saint Paul.
- Collaborate with leadership on tenant recruitment and leasing strategy.
- Provide project management for operational and capital improvement initiatives.
- Manage tenant improvement projects from planning through completion.
- Evaluate building performance and recommend operational or capital improvements.
- Stay informed on market trends and tenant needs.
Project & Administrative Oversight
- Assist with redevelopment and capital projects, including site improvements, permitting, and infrastructure coordination.
- Support tracking of project budgets, invoices, and documentation.
- Participate in real estate processes such as leases, easements, surveys, and agreements.
- Contribute research and analysis of property performance, expenses, and valuations.
- Gain exposure to broader development initiatives, creating a pathway toward development, project management, or real estate roles.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in real estate, engineering, public administration, property management, construction management, or related fields
- Minnesota Real Estate Salesperson License
- 3+ years of experience managing multiple projects and/or property transactions
Please note: We will consider candidates with a comparable combination of experience and education.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
- Demonstrated experience managing CAM budgets, reconciliations, and tenant communications
- Experience negotiating and managing service contracts and vendors
- Strong financial, organizational, and project management skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience managing tenant improvement projects preferred
WORKING AT THE PORT AUTHORITY
At the Saint Paul Port Authority, we are a small but mighty team. If you’re interested in wearing multiple hats and working for a fast-paced, results-driven organization, this is the place for you. You will be joined by colleagues who are committed to being collaborative, innovative, and risk-taking, while always working with integrity.
The Saint Paul Port Authority offers a best-in-class benefits package focused on supporting the health and wellness of our employees. We believe in work-life balance with an environment that offers flexibility. This includes generous health and retirement plans and paid time off. Parking in downtown Saint Paul is provided.
The Saint Paul Port Authority is committed to building a diverse team that reflects our community. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Application deadline: July 13, 2026