Summary

This job involves leading the review of land development projects, analyzing their fit with local policies, and advising government officials on decisions in a growing community.

It suits someone who enjoys solving tricky land use problems, working with teams and the public, and handling high-stakes presentations in a busy setting.

Ideal candidates are experienced planners who can mentor staff, negotiate diplomatically, and balance multiple tasks while communicating clearly.

Key Requirements

Master’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, or related field
Four years of professional experience in planning or related field
One year of supervisory experience (strongly preferred)
Advanced knowledge of land use planning, zoning, and land development
Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and diplomatic skills for working with officials, stakeholders, and the public
Excellent writing, presentation, and facilitation skills
Ability to manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and coordinate with departments and agencies
Valid driver’s license and willingness to attend evening meetings

Full Job Description

Are you passionate about managing and analyzing land development applications and presenting to and advising local government officials? Do you enjoy developing reasonable solutions to complex land use issues in a fast-paced, collaborative environment? Loudoun County, Virginia’s Department of Planning and Zoning is seeking a Principal Planner to manage the comprehensive review of discretionary land development applications in a large and expanding multifaceted community. The ideal candidate shares a passion for land use policy and zoning; prioritizes problem solving and collaboration; and thrives in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment. After an initial training period, this position is eligible for two days of teleworking per week.

Requirements

The Principal Planner supervisors and mentors up to three planners, independently analyzes complex and large-scale land development applications, and provides recommendations to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors regarding project consistency with adopted land use policies and ordinances. The ideal candidate will have advanced knowledge of land use planning and land development and will be able to coordinate with other departments and agencies, prioritize tasks, meet critical deadlines while autonomously managing multiple assignments, and present cohesive technical analysis to key decision-makers.

This position has high visibility and works closely with the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, staff from other County agencies, and a variety of stakeholders, including residents, business owners, and community groups. Potential projects range from affordable housing and rural economy uses to transit-oriented development around Metrorail stations, redevelopment, data centers, and energy storage. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills, the ability to negotiate sensitive issues, and a style that emphasizes diplomacy and the willingness to seek reasonable solutions. The position requires excellent writing, presentation, and facilitation skills; the ability to communicate effectively with staff, the public, and elected and appointed officials; and proficiency in mentoring and motivating professional staff.

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

Salary commensurate with experience.

Qualifications

Master’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, or a related field; four (4) years of related work experience in professional planning or a related field; one (1) year of supervisory experience strongly preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Additional Information

Attendance and presentations at evening meetings and workshops after normal business hours is required.
This position requires a valid driver’s license, driving record, and criminal background check. Relocation assistance is available to successful candidates who live more than 40 miles away.

This position requires a valid driver’s license, driving record, and criminal background check. Relocation assistance is available to successful candidates who live more than 40 miles away.

↻ Recently Reactivated

Principal Planner- Land Use

Job Description

Summary

Key Requirements

Full Job Description

Requirements

Qualifications

Additional Information

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