Project Analyst; Planning & Development Advisory

Overview

Project Analyst - Hybrid in Austin, TX

Are you an analytically driven professional who is energized by complex problem-solving, thoughtful synthesis, and mission-focused work? This Project Analyst role sits at the intersection of real estate development, planning, finance, and strategy. Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D) leads the planning, development, and management of the places that shape and strengthen our communities.

B&D is seeking a Project Analyst to join our Austin-based team on a hybrid basis, with weekly in-office attendance required. The Project Analyst plays a critical role in helping institutions align on long-term vision, strategy, and impact.

Position Purpose

The primary focus of the Project Analyst role is to produce analytics and resulting synthesis that inform project teams’ advisement to colleges, universities, and other clients. Analysts support the positioning of assets—including campus housing, intercollegiate athletic facilities, campus recreation centers, student unions, arenas and stadiums, campus-edge developments, independent and charter schools, and community recreation centers—to advance each organization’s long-term mission and vision.

Analytical work may include master planning activities, site and market analyses, needs assessments, program planning, financial modeling, and strategic evaluations. Project Analysts collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to translate data into insights that support clear, actionable client decision-making.

• Perform data collection and analysis to support client engagements, including:
• Focus group facilitation and reporting
• In-person and telephone interviews
• Survey design and analysis
• Space planning and program development
• Financial modeling and quantitative analysis
• Print, market, and internet-based research
• Synthesize analytical findings within relevant client, institutional, and market contexts.
• Actively contribute ideas, insights, and recommendations as a collaborative member of the project team.
• Develop high-quality presentation decks, financial models, and written deliverables that support institutional decision-making.
• Assist with the coordination of project activities, including scheduling and participating in client meetings and presentations.
• Serve as a secondary point of contact for clients, supporting communication and follow-through throughout project engagements.
• Participate in B&D’s business development efforts, including conference attendance, article development, and relationship building.
• Support quality control and client satisfaction efforts for assigned projects.
• Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, and training of new staff.
• Contribute to the firm’s research and development initiatives by identifying new analytical tools, strengthening existing models, and improving internal processes.
• Perform other duties as assigned, contributing proactively to team and firm success.

• A bachelor’s degree in higher education, construction management, planning, real estate development, architecture, or a related field is required.
• Two or more years of relevant professional experience, or a master’s degree in a related field.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, with demonstrated intellectual curiosity.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and group facilitation skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management capabilities.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multi-project environment.
• Comprehensive proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) beyond beginner level.
• Strong understanding of real estate, finance, and accounting principles.
• Proven adaptability, flexibility, creativity, and commitment to excellence.
• Self-motivated with an aptitude for continuous professional growth and development.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel.
• Clear alignment with and support for B&D’s mission, values, and operating paradigm

Impactful Mission: People who are motivated by meaningful work tied to mission,…