Principal Planner - Zoning Administration
Loudoun County
FreshPosted Feb 18
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Posted: February 18, 2026 (1 day ago)
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Zoning Inspector - BSEED (For Current BSEED Employees Only)
City of Detroit
Buildings & Safety Eng
Location
Detroit, Michigan, 48226
Salary
$63,614 - $85,376
per year
Type
Full-Time
More Inspection & Compliance jobs →Closes
February 24, 2026
Job Description
Summary
This job involves checking properties and neighborhoods to ensure they follow city zoning rules, reviewing plans for new developments, and helping guide people through the permitting process using online tools.
It also includes issuing tickets for violations, preparing cases for court, and coordinating with city departments and the public to resolve zoning issues.
A good fit would be someone with experience in construction, planning, or land use who enjoys fieldwork, problem-solving, and supporting community growth in a busy urban setting.
Key Requirements
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- At least two years of college-level coursework (likely in a relevant field like planning or engineering)
- Experience inspecting properties and investigating zoning compliance
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal zoning ordinances and building codes
- Proficiency in using permitting software like Accela and Avolve ProjectDox
- Strong communication skills for coordinating with applicants, departments, and legal teams
- Ability to prepare reports, maps, and presentations for hearings and court
Full Job Description
BUILDINGS, SAFETY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT
ZONING INSPECTOR
THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN TO ACTIVE BSEED EMPLOYEES ONLY
Join the City of Detroit – Shape the Future of Our Neighborhoods!
The Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED) is seeking a Zoning Inspector to support zoning and permitting activities citywide.
Under general supervision, the Zoning Inspector inspects and investigates properties and surrounding areas involved in zoning cases and special land use grants.
The position serves as the primary point of contact for applicants utilizing Accela and Avolve ProjectDox, providing guidance, status updates, and coordination throughout the zoning and related review stages.
The Zoning Inspector evaluates submitted plans, permits, and supporting documentation for completeness and adherence to applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including zoning ordinances, building codes, and land use requirements.
The role coordinates application routing to appropriate City review disciplines (e.g., planning, fire, public works, zoning), monitors review status, and follows up to support timely processing.
The position facilitates communication between applicants, developers, architects, contractors, inspectors, and City departments to address and help resolve issues related to permit processing.
Acting as a technical liaison, the Zoning Inspector supports interdepartmental collaboration to ensure compliance and efficient progression of zoning and permitting matters from application through applicable review milestones.
If you have experience in land development, construction, or city planning—and a passion for strengthening communities—this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on Detroit’s future.
Requirements
Inspect property, land or structures and investigates adjacent neighborhoods to determine effects of proposed new land uses and conformance of existing sites with Zoning Ordinance.
Issue infractions for zoning violations and performs follow-up activities for enforcement of Zoning Ordinance, including court actions.
Work with attorneys and other City agencies to prepare cases for court.
Review plans of proposed usage of land sites for conformance or exception to the Zoning Ordinance.
Research legal use and occupancy of properties which have bearing on zoning compliance or petitions for zoning variance.
Plot legal descriptions, prepares maps and determines owners of properties involved.
Notify property owners of zoning petitions.
Conferwith attorneys, architects, engineers, contractors, property owners and petitioners to obtain additional information required for grants and/or to provide explanations of conditions or requirements necessary to secure permits.
Draft recommended conditions for each case and adjusts it according to testimony presented at hearings.
Draft reports for presentation to the Director.
Make presentations at hearings and in court regarding site uses.
Monitor and follows up on zoning cases to ensure appropriate land use and compliance with conditions.
Respond to inquiries and complaints and provides information regarding zoning problems.
Meet with representatives of other City agencies to coordinate and provide information.
Qualifications
High School graduation or G.E.D. (General Education Development)
Completion of Two (2) years of college level coursework in land use planning, city planning, architectural or structural design, or other related field of study is preferred.
One (1) year of experience in land development, building construction and city land use planning, including inspection and/or supervision.
Valid State of Michigan Operator License. Employees in the class will be required to provide and operate a motor vehicle on a reimbursed mileage basis.
Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.
Additional Information
Evaluation Plan
- Interview: 70%
- Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%
Additional points may be awarded for:
- Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
- Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of the City of Detroit Zoning Ordinance and zoning definitions.
- Knowledge of the local building code.
- Knowledge of the City Master Plan land usage definitions and standards.
- Skill in the use of personal computers and common office software.
- Skill in reading and interpreting site plans, maps, elevations and specifications for new development or alterations to present structures for Zoning Ordinance and Master Plan requirements.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to draw or sketch maps and plans and compute specifications.
- Ability to detect potential public safety hazards.
- Ability to become proficient in the use of hand held data entry and telecommunication devices.
- Ability to effectively interact with property owners, supervisory personnel, engineers, contractors, attorneys and the public.
Work Environment
- Work is performed indoors in a typical office environment and outdoors with exposure to all seasonal weather conditions.
- Travel between various inspection sites is required.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD:
- Individuals appointed to a position in this class will be required to serve a probationary period of six months with the possibility of a six-month extension for a total of twelve months.
- The performance will be carefully evaluated during the probationary period.
- Continued employment in this class will be contingent upon the successful completion of the probationary period and meeting all of the performance expectation requirements.
THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN TO ACTIVE BSEED EMPLOYEES ONLY
PLEASE ATTACH AN UPDATED RESUME AND ANY CERTIFICATIONS WITH YOUR APPLICATION
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED
Notes:- A review of the applicant's attendance records and work performance will be considered in the promotional process.
- Person applying must meet the position qualifications, including licensing and certifications.
- Completion of an evaluation process is required.
- If you have previously applied for this position, you must re-apply to be considered for this vacancy.
Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.
The above statements reflect the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Essential duties may vary from position to position.
PLEASE ATTACH RESUME TO APPLICATION
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED
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