Principal Planner - Zoning Administration

Loudoun County Government has been named one of Forbes' 2025 Best Large Employers! We're proud to be recognized nationally for our commitment to employee satisfaction and excellence in public service. At Loudoun County, we bring together talented professionals from all backgrounds to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, growing community - that's The Loudoun Difference .

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.

Introduction

Loudoun County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country, known for its excellent quality of life and strong economy, while embracing its historic presence. Located 35 miles west of Washington DC, Loudoun County offers a diverse blend of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. Loudoun County has diverse planning challenges and opportunities, from the development of transit-oriented urban neighborhoods around Metrorail stations to land-conservation and rural planning initiatives in the rural west. The Department of Planning and Zoning focuses on providing high quality customer service and offers unique opportunities to gain diverse experience in the planning profession.

Loudoun County government has been included in Forbes magazine's prestigious ranking of America's Best Large Employers. Loudoun is recognized for its outstanding commitment to fostering environments where employees can thrive based on various factors, including atmosphere, salary, diversity, working conditions, and workplace environment.

Job Summary

Loudoun County, Virginia's Department of Planning and Zoning is recruiting a Principal Planner in the Zoning Administration division. The Department is focused on providing high quality customer service and offers unique opportunities to gain in-depth and diverse experience in the planning profession. The ideal candidate prioritizes problem solving and collaboration and thrives in a fast-paced, result-oriented environment.

As a member of the Zoning Administration team, you will work closely with applicants, the Planning Commission, the Board of Supervisors, the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Zoning Ordinance Committee, staff from a variety of County agencies, and the public. Primary responsibilities will include : providing support to major economic development projects; working with potential clients to understand the Zoning Ordinance; reviewing a variety of land development applications for zoning conformance, researching and preparing zoning determination letters, processing variance and appeal applications, serving as project manager in the preparation and processing of Zoning Ordinance amendments, participating in other special projects, and assisting other staff with the preparation and review of work products.

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.

Minimum 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.

The successful candidate must be customer service focused and exhibit excellent writing, presentation and analytical skills; facilitation and problem-solving skills; the ability to communicate effectively with staff, applicants, the public, as well as elected and appointed officials; the ability to meet deadlines and maintain product quality while managing multiple assignments.

Preference will be given for membership in the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and for being a Certified Zoning Administrator (CZA) through the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO). Knowledge of planning and land use in Virginia is also desirable.

Job Contingencies and Special Requirements

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of criminal, credit, and DMV background checks. Teleworking is an option after an initial training period. Relocation assistance is available to successful candidates who live more than 40 miles away.

Attendance at night meetings will be expected.