Land Use Planner

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Summary
Under the supervision of attorneys, as a Land Use Planner, you will perform a range of substantive case, matter or entity related duties. You will work independently to manage large multi-disciplinary project teams, guiding them through the zoning entitlement process. You will also coordinate efforts between attorneys, clients, co-consultants, jurisdictional staff and appointed or elected officials.

Location
This position is located in our Reston office and offers a hybrid work schedule.

Responsibilities  

• Prepares applications and supporting documentation for matters related to land use including zoning relief, zoning changes, zoning approvals, local ordinances, and property searches.
• Drafts findings and project descriptions, statements of justification, researching code sections and reviewing land use and comprehensive plans.
• Reviews and provides direction to technical consultants such as architects and surveyors regarding the form of zoning exhibits and plats.
• Coordinates the state and local lobbying ordinance registration and reporting process.
• Prepares economic disclosure statements and affidavits, including city and county ownership affidavits and disclosures.
• Interacts with municipal staff to submit and monitor the review of zoning and land use applications, and, under supervision of a lawyer, respond to questions and requests from municipal staff in the course of reviewing zoning and land use applications.
• Assists with preparation, recording and filing of documents related to the acquisition, development, finance, and disposition of real property across jurisdictions.
• Under supervision of a lawyer, drafts and revises term sheets, letters of intent, agreement of sale, leases, deed, easements, and rights of way.
• Assists with all aspects of land development and/or subdivision approval process including municipal rezoning requests, variances, and other forms of zoning relief.
• Other duties as assigned.
  

Desired Skills   
Must have experience requesting public records form public agencies, preparing and filing project application packages and effectuating permits in specific jurisdictions. Experience must include drafting findings and project descriptions, statements of justification, researching code section and reviewing land use comprehensive plans. Experience working in a large law firm preferred. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint. Excellent communication skills required to interact with clients, co-consultants, jurisdictional staff and appointed/elected officials. Must be able to work independently to manage large multi-disciplinary project teams and guiding them through the zoning entitlement process. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Minimum Education   

• Bachelor's Degree.

Preferred Education

• Master’s Degree in Planning.

Certificates

• AICP certification or a Paralegal certificate is preferred.

Minimum Years of Experience  

• 3 years of experience supporting a Real Estate practice group, a municipal or private-sector setting fulfilling a land use and planning role, or a combination thereof. Experience working in a law firm preferred.

Essential Job Expectations
All DLA Piper employees are expected to demonstrate excellence in how we serve our clients and develop our people, upholding our firm values as part of our culture. Specific expectations include:

• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and external audiences.
• Produce high-quality work and respond to correspondence in an efficient, timely, and professional manner.
• Meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, and commit to meeting high standards.
• Comply with firm policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidences as required in a law firm environment.

Physical Demands
Sedentary work: This is primarily sedentary work, requiring occasional exertion of up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. The role involves sitting for extended periods, with occasional walking and standing, and occasional travel, both domestic and international.

Work Environment   
The individual selected for this position may have the opportunity for a hybrid work arrangement combining remote and in-office work. The specific arrangement will be determined at the time of hiring and may be modified at the firm's discretion.

Disclaimer   
The purpose of this job description is to provide a concise statement of the work elements and to organize and present the information in a standardized way. It is not intended to describe all the elements of the work that may be performed by every individual in this classification, nor should it serve as the sole criteria for personnel decisions and actions. The job duties, requirements, and expectations for this position may be modified at the Firm’s discretion at any time. This job description does not change the at-will nature of employment.

Application Process    
Applicants must apply directly online instead of sending application materials via email.    

Accommodation   
Reasonable accommodations may be made upon request to permit individuals with a disability to perform the essential functions and responsibilities of the position or to participate in the job selection process. If you have a request for an accommodation during the application process, please contact careers@us.dlapiper.com.

Agency applications will not be considered.    

No immigration sponsorship is available for this position.   

The firm’s expected hiring range for this position is $53.64 - $71.08 per hour depending on the candidate’s geographic market location. Non-exempt positions will be paid on an hourly basis and paid overtime in accordance with applicable laws.

The compensation offered for employment will also be dependent on other factors including the candidate’s experience, skills, educational and professional background, and overall qualifications. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

Applicants who are not based in the jurisdiction in which this position is posted and who apply for this role are doing so voluntarily and are not eligible for relocation assistance. Any relocation benefits, if any, are provided only where a relocation is required at the firm’s direction and in accordance with applicable policy and law.

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DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Job applicant poster viewing center.