Land Use & Zoning Attorney

About the Role

Miller Johnson seeks a motivated Land Use & Zoning Attorney to join our Real Estate Practice Group in our Grand Rapids, Detroit, or Kalamazoo offices. The ideal candidate will bring strong initiative, excellent organization, and a collaborative mindset to support a broad range of land use, zoning, and development projects. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with developers, municipalities, and business clients on complex and meaningful projects that shape the communities we serve.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients before planning commissions, zoning boards, and city councils to secure approvals, variances, and entitlements.
• Provide strategic counsel on zoning, land use, development, and municipal law, including rezonings, special use permits, and site plan reviews.
• Conduct due diligence related to land use restrictions, title matters, and environmental considerations.
• Draft and negotiate development-related agreements, such as purchase agreements, easements, and development contracts.
• Collaborate effectively with planners, engineers, consultants, and multiple attorneys across the firm, maintaining organization while managing numerous matters simultaneously.
• Demonstrate initiative by identifying unanswered questions, researching issues independently, and proactively driving matters forward.
• Manage workload and deadlines efficiently, communicating clearly about progress and seeking guidance as needed to maintain quality and timeliness.
• Participate in business development efforts, including client outreach, presentations, and community engagement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school; a dual degree in Urban Planning, Public Policy, or Real Estate Development is a plus.
• Active license (or eligibility for admission) to practice law in Michigan.
• 3+ years of experience in land use, zoning, municipal, or real estate law preferred.
• Strong research, writing, and oral advocacy skills, with the ability to present effectively before public bodies and administrative agencies.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, stay organized, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced practice environment.
• Demonstrated curiosity, accountability, and professionalism, with a willingness to learn, adapt, and engage in the firm’s apprenticeship culture.
• Experience or interest in environmental law is a plus.

Culture & Values

At Miller Johnson, our culture is anchored in our Core Values and how we work together:

Who We Are

• Integrity and Candor – We speak the truth.
• Down to Earth – We stay humble and real.
• Grit – We push through and get it done.
• Committed to Excellence – We raise the bar.
• Committed to Impact – We lift others up.

How We Work

• Entrepreneurial Mindset – We think like owners.
• Down to Business – We move fast and stay practical.
• Rooted and Invested – We build lasting trust.

We are committed to fostering an exceptional work experience that includes a healthy work-life balance and an inclusive culture that values uniquely talented team members.

Benefits

• Competitive wages and flexible scheduling.
• Paid time off and annual performance reviews.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement and adoption assistance.
• 401(k)-retirement plan.