Early-Career Land Use Planner - Hybrid & AI Tools

McGuireWoods LLP; Tysons (VA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

McGuireWoods LLP in Tysons, VA is seeking an early-career Land Use Planner to join our Tysons land use team. Working closely with attorneys and staff, you will assist with filing and processing land use and development applications across complex projects.

This role offers a collaborative environment with opportunities to learn the entitlement process from concept through approval, in a flexible hybrid setting with proximity to Northern Virginia jurisdictions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban studies, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with zoning ordinances, comprehensive plans, rezoning applications, site plans, and subdivision plans through coursework, internships, or early professional experience.
• Interest in local government land use, zoning, and planning policies, and eagerness to learn Northern Virginia jurisdictions.
• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills with careful attention to detail.
• A team-oriented approach and the ability to work closely with attorneys, planners, and staff, manage deadlines, and take initiative.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and GIS.
• Ability to travel locally as needed.
• Interest in using innovative AI technology, including Harvey and Copilot, to support efficient high-impact work.

Responsibilities

• Assist with land use due diligence, including reviewing zoning, subdivision, and comprehensive plans, to help the team develop approval strategies.
• Help prepare, file, and process zoning and development applications, including application materials, exhibits, affidavits, proffers, and related documents.
• Support attorneys and senior planners in coordinating with local government staff and public/private agencies on development, site, and construction approvals.
• Contribute to community engagement efforts that build support for development projects.
• Work with architects, engineers, landscape architects, and other project consultants to coordinate application materials.
• Help prepare presentations to planning commissions, governing bodies, civic associations, and other stakeholders, and attend public meetings and hearings.
• Help track and facilitate follow-on approvals, including site and building permits, after zoning approval.
• Research land use and regulatory issues and help prepare recommendations for the team.
• Collaborate with real estate attorneys on development-related transactional matters, including zoning compliance.
• Participate in team marketing initiatives, professional associations, and pro bono activities.

Skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Teamwork

GIS

Microsoft Office

Local travel willingness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in planning or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

GIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

McGuireWoods LLP in Tysons, VA is seeking an early-career Land Use Planner to join our Tysons land use team. Working closely with attorneys and staff, you will assist with filing and processing land use and development applications across complex projects.

This role offers a collaborative environment with opportunities to learn the entitlement process from concept through approval, in a flexible hybrid setting with proximity to Northern Virginia jurisdictions.