Attorney - Land Use/Zoning

About the role

An established firm based in Arlington, Virginia with over 40 years in practice is seeking an Associate Attorney with 2-5 years of experience to join its team in a hybrid work arrangement. This opportunity offers exposure to land use, zoning, entitlement, development, environmental, and local government matters throughout Northern Virginia. The role will involve representing developers, landowners, investors, and corporate clients through complex approval processes while working closely with local government staff, planning commissions, elected officials, and community stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in zoning, special exception, special use permit, rezoning, variance, and development approval matters
• Prepare and present applications before local government staff, planning commissions, boards, and governing bodies
• Advise clients regarding land use regulations, entitlement strategies, and zoning compliance issues
• Conduct due diligence reviews, site analyses, and regulatory assessments for development projects
• Draft legal memoranda, applications, agreements, appeals, and related transactional documents
• Coordinate with planners, engineers, architects, consultants, and project teams throughout the entitlement process
• Participate in community outreach efforts, neighborhood meetings, and stakeholder presentations
• Assist with zoning appeals, administrative proceedings, and other land use disputes
• Support clients on environmental, permitting, post-approval, and local government law matters
• Build and maintain strong client relationships while contributing to business development initiatives across Northern Virginia jurisdictions

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school and active Virginia Bar admission or eligibility to waive into Virginia
• 2-5 years of experience in land use, zoning, real estate, environmental, municipal, or local government law
• Strong legal research, writing, negotiation, and advocacy skills
• Experience drafting applications, memoranda, briefs, and related land use documents
• Ability to manage multiple matters and deadlines in a fast-paced practice
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to engage effectively with government officials, consultants, developers, and community stakeholders
• Interest in economic development, public policy, and the real estate development process

Pay

Salary range: $130,000-$180,000+, contingent on experience

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Paid time off and firm holidays
• Professional development and CLE reimbursement
• Virginia State Bar dues and professional membership reimbursement
• Collaborative and highly regarded land use and zoning practice
• Hybrid work flexibility