An exciting opportunity to join an experienced, boutique law firm operating in multiple jurisdictions in Northern Virginia on first-in-class development projects.   

Under the supervision of attorneys and senior planners, perform a range of substantive case and land use related duties. Work independently, as appropriate, to manage large multi-disciplinary project teams, guiding them through the zoning entitlement process. Coordinate all aspects of zoning cases with attorneys/senior colleagues, clients, professional consultants, jurisdictional staff and appointed or elected officials.

This position is located in our Chantilly office and offers a hybrid work schedule, with at least two in-person days per week.

 Responsibilities

Prepare applications and supporting materials for matters related to land use including zoning changes, special exceptions, zoning approvals, local ordinances, and deed/ easement drafting. Draft persuasive project descriptions, statements of justification, research code sections and review land use ordinances and comprehensive plans. Review and provide direction to technical consultants such as civil engineers, traffic planners, architects and environmental consultants to ensure success of the overall application effort. Prepare disclosure statements and affidavits, including city, town and county ownership affidavits and disclosures. Interact with jurisdictional staff to submit and monitor the review of zoning and land use applications and, under supervision of a lawyer or senior planner, respond to questions and requests from such staff in the course of reviewing zoning and land use applications. Assist with all aspects of land development and/or subdivision approval process.

Other duties as assigned.

 Desired Skills

Must have excellent communication and writing skills, familiarity with researching public records and a willingness to learn the documents and processes of various jurisdictions. Experience must include drafting persuasive statements and evidence of excellent research experience. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint. Must be able to work independently and also as part of a larger team to manage large multi-disciplinary project teams. Must be willing and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

 Minimum Education

Bachelor's Degree

 Preferred Experience

3 years' experience or a degree in a field related to land use and zoning, with preference for experience working as a land use planner in the private sector. 

Essential Job Expectations

• Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties.
• Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner.
• Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product.
• Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required.
• Foster positive work relationships.
• Comply with all firm policies and practices.
• Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as (a) working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing; (b) participating in digital/virtual conference calls; and (c) participating in meetings as needed.
• Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned.

Work Environment

Hybrid - Regular in-office presence with some flexibility for work-from-home