Suburban Philadelphia Zoning and Land Use Associate

plug-legal; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship opportunities

Dynamic work culture

Professional growth support

Inclusive workplace environment

Job summary

plug-legal in Pennsylvania is seeking a Land Use & Zoning Associate with 2-5 years of experience in zoning and land use law. This role involves managing complex land entitlement and development matters for various clients, including property owners and municipalities.

Ideal candidates will have strong analytical and interpersonal skills, familiarity with local development processes, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative, dynamic environment. This position offers professional growth opportunities in a respected legal practice.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of zoning and land use law experience within a law firm or municipal environment.
• Strong familiarity with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC).
• Must be admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and in good standing.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in the land entitlement and development process.
• Prepare and manage zoning and municipal permit applications.
• Review and interpret complex zoning plans and local ordinances.
• Advocate before zoning hearing boards and planning commissions.
• Assist with zoning and land use appeals.

Skills

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Writing skills

Education

JD or equivalent degree from a well-respected law school

Job description

Elevate your legal career by joining a premier Zoning and Land Use team within one of the most exciting, active, and respected practices in the region. We are seeking a high-caliber Land Use & Zoning Associate (2-5 years) to support our rapidly growing suburban Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, and Central Pennsylvania practice. This is a premier opportunity to manage complex land entitlement and development matters for property owners, developers, tenants, and municipalities within a firm celebrated for its legal excellence and expansive regional reach.

About the Role

As a Land Use & Zoning Associate based in our Pennsylvania practice, you will serve as a strategic advisor navigating the intricate phases of the land development lifecycle. You will guide clients through everything from initial zoning plan reviews and permit applications to advocating directly before municipal boards and community organizations. This role is designed for a proactive, self-starting practitioner who thrives in a fast-paced, high-energy environment and is ready to integrate into a robust practice that values collaboration, camaraderie, and professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Entitlement & Development: Represent property owners, developers, tenants, and municipalities in numerous aspects of the land entitlement and development process.
• Applications & Permitting: Prepare, file, and manage sophisticated zoning, land use, and municipal permit applications.
• Plan Interpretation: Review, analyze, and interpret complex zoning plans and local ordinances to provide strategic counsel.
• Public Advocacy: Appear and advocate effectively before zoning hearing boards, planning commissions, municipal governing bodies, and community organizations.
• Appellate Support: Assist with and navigate zoning and land use appeals through the court system (appellate experience is a strong plus).

Requirements

• Experience: 2-5 years of dedicated zoning and land use law experience within a reputable law firm or municipal environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong familiarity with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) and deep knowledge of local development processes.
• Bar Admission: Must be admitted to practice and in good standing with the Pennsylvania State Bar.
• Academic Background: JD or equivalent degree from a well-respected, accredited U.S. law school with strong academic credentials.
• Skills: Exceptional analytical, writing, and interpersonal skills; outstanding attention to accuracy and detail; and the ability to respond productively to direction and feedback.

Why This Opportunity?

• Highly Respected Practice: Build your career within a rapidly expanding and highly respected group consistently recognized for shaping the region's physical and commercial landscape.
• Dynamic Culture: Benefit from a collaborative, high-energy environment that values team players, independent initiative, and a strong spirit of camaraderie.
• Professional Growth: Gain high-level, hands-on experience and direct public exposure that actively supports your development and path toward partnership.
• Inclusive Workplace: Join an organization that proudly embraces diversity in all of its manifestations and fosters an environment where every professional can thrive.

Location / Working Model

• Location: Pennsylvania (Supporting Suburban Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, and Central PA)
• Working Model: Our firm values the mentorship and synergy of in-person connection; this role operates within our modern office environment, fostering a culture of professional excellence through regular collaboration.