Zoning Associate Planner

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. 
 

The Community Planning, Housing and Development (CPHD) Department is seeking a Zoning Associate Planner to join our Zoning Division within the Policy, Research, and Information Management (PRIM) section, which is responsible for providing oversight and execution of operations for the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). PRIM also responds to written inquiries for the Zoning Administrator, records management of land use decisions, assisting Division supervisors and staff with assessing program needs and developing solutions. PRIM collaborates with Communications staff to ensure the Division's website content is accurate, and overseeing payroll, budget, and procurement activities. 
 
The Zoning Division is responsible for providing a wide range of services related to the administration and interpretation of regulations contained in the Arlington County Zoning Ordinance (ACZO). 

Specific Duties Include: 

 

• Performing research and analysis related to zoning, land use, development, and real estate regulations both broadly and for specific properties pursuant to the Code of Virginia, Arlington County Zoning Ordinance (ACZO), and past approvals of the BZA; 

• Providing technical assistance and information relating to the Zoning Ordinance, and BZA processes to a variety of internal and external stakeholders, including residents, developers, Staff, Media, and other agencies;

• Drafting correspondence, including compliance letters and map corrections on behalf of the Zoning Administrator based on their research and analysis;

• Providing the Board of Zoning Appeals Coordinator with administrative and technical support, including meeting with residents, evaluating their plans, and informing them of the BZA’s process, timeline, and fees;

• Reviewing and processing BZA applications and reports, and drafting findings the BZA must make in granting a Use Permit or Variance;

• Attending public meetings including BZA’s evening meetings;

• Determining if compliance with BZA decisions are met;  

• Reviewing, analyzing, preparing, cataloging, and tracking BZA monthly public notices, staff reports, photos, PowerPoint presentations, meeting minutes, and disposition letters; and

• Performing other job-related duties as assigned.

 

The ideal candidate is a problem-solver, great communicator, with impeccable customer service skills; including knowledge of related legal principles, the ability to remain focused while managing multiple tasks, and a team-player that would love an opportunity to assist in achieving the organization's strategic goals.

Minimum: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or related field: and 
• Two (2) years of progressive experience in urban planning/design, zoning, or land use development.    

Substitution: Additional education may be substituted for experience.  Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.     
Desirable: Preference may be given to candidates with a Master’s Degree in a related field and experience in one or more of the following:   

• Knowledge of land use law related to Zoning;

• Preparing and conducting presentations in a public setting;

• Performing research and analysis relating to zoning, land use, development, and real estate regulations; and 

• Working with the community, neighborhood, non-profit and business groups, and public/private organizations. 

Special Requirements:

A complete application will include an attached resume which highlights how your background and experience align with the qualifications for this position.

A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted, which may include criminal records, driving records, education, professional licensure, and credit history.  You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information. 
  
The applicant must possess, or obtain by the time of appointment, a valid Driver License. The applicant must authorize Arlington County to obtain, or the applicant must provide a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment is contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record. 
 

Completion of the Commonwealth of Virginia Statement of Economic Interest form will be required of the successful candidate upon hire and annually thereafter. 

 

Additional Information:

Work Hours: Monday - Friday, flexible work hours generally between 8:00am and 5:00pm, with telework options.  Evening and weekend work may be required to attend Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) meetings. 
 

The official title for this position is Planner, Associate. 
 

For more information on Arlington County’s generous benefits and retirement plan, click here.

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