Project Development Advisor

Project Development Advisor (1‑year contract)

Alava Consulting is seeking a Project Development Advisor for a one‑year hybrid contract located in Washington, DC. The role requires a Mid‑Senior level professional to advance projects involving chilled water, steam, electrical distribution, HVAC, and renewable energy systems, ensuring technical soundness, financial justification, and readiness for delivery.

• Lead the preparation of feasibility studies, business cases, and conceptual design packages for capital projects.
• Develop project scopes, cost estimates, schedules, and risk assessments in collaboration with Engineering Advisors and Delivery teams.
• Support project approval processes by preparing funding documentation, presentations, and supporting materials.
• Ensure smooth handoff of developed projects to the Project Delivery team with complete technical and financial documentation.
• Review contractor and consultant deliverables for consistency, accuracy, and alignment.
• Participate in the maintenance of the project pipeline, milestone schedules, and funding forecasts.
• Support risk management, contract governance, and scope control throughout development stages.
• Serve as the day‑to‑day interface with university stakeholders during the project development phase.
• Foster collaboration and problem‑solving among multidisciplinary teams to advance complex infrastructure projects.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in capital project development, utility infrastructure, or large‑scale campus/municipal projects.
• Strong understanding of the technical, financial, and contractual elements of infrastructure development.
• Demonstrated experience preparing project approval documentation and feasibility studies.
• Proficiency with lifecycle cost analysis, business case modeling, and capital planning tools.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills for stakeholder and executive engagement.
• Collaborative and empathetic approach to balancing competing priorities and stakeholder interests.
• Experience with public‑private partnerships (P3s) preferred.
• Familiarity with university or campus utility systems is an advantage.

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.