Planner I- Zoning Permits

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

Located in the western part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Loudoun County is a dynamic community that experienced significant growth over the past few decades with changing development environments, ranging from transit-oriented development at our new Metrorail stations, to redevelopment of existing neighborhoods, to maintaining and fostering our vibrant rural economy in the western part of the county. These factors create a fast-paced, high-energy work environment. The Department of Building and Development prides itself on providing great customer service in an atmosphere where work-life balance and professional development are respected and encouraged.

The Planner I is an entry level position as a Planner and has no supervisory responsibilities.

Under the general direction of the designated supervisor reviews zoning permit applications for conformance with the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance and approved administrative and/or legislative applications. This position provides information on the Zoning Ordinance, land development, land use, permits, historic districts, etc.; reviews situations involving legislative proffers and special exception conditions; coordinates with other divisions and departments; advises applicants; and works with applicants to resolve planning and zoning issues.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
1. Respond to requests for information and walk-in inquiries from the public on matters concerning zoning, land development applications, land use, planning policies, and projects; review residential and commercial zoning permit applications for compliance to the Loudoun County zoning ordinance and prior administrative and legislative land development application approvals; manage zoning permit review comments and associated documents in the County's land management software; and provide technical assistance to citizens, developers, and business owners, related to the Department of Building and Development application and permitting process.
2. Coordinate with other county agencies, developers, contractors, and the public to assist in navigating through multiple overlapping processes, identify potential issues that may arise, and assist with ensuring timelines are met and issues are adequately addressed.

The ideal candidate will be familiar with land development processes, legislative actions, policies, and best practices, with the ability to juggle multiple projects and priorities. Experience in building and working within a cohesive team will ensure the success of this position. This position requires a high level of self-motivation, organization, diplomacy, interpersonal skills, and integrity; and the ability to communicate ideas clearly, concisely, and effectively, both orally and in writing. The ideal candidate will establish and maintain effective relationships with fellow employees, County officials, contractors, and the public.

Successful applicants will also excel in areas such as continuous learning, customer-focused service, dependability, flexibility, leadership, planning and organization, reasoning and problem solving, and teamwork.

This position may be assigned to assist with special projects or initiatives and is eligible for telework, per the Department's telework policy.

This position is eligible for a $6,000 hiring bonus for new hires in accordance with the County's Hiring and Retention Bonus Program.

Hiring salary is commensurate with experience.

Bachelor's degree in Planning, Urban Studies, Zoning, Historic Preservation, Business or Public Administration; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Basic GIS experience is desirable.

This position requires an analytical thinker with the ability to facilitate discussions, solve complex problems, and efficiently present results and/or recommendations. The ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks and meet critical deadlines is required. Experience working in land use management systems software and the ability to develop queries is strongly preferred. Must have strong advisory and communication skills as well as the ability to adjust to a variety of situations including communication with staff, applicants, governmental officials, and citizens

This position requires a valid driver's license, DMV, credit, and criminal background checks.