Planner III-Community Planning at Loudoun County Government, VA

About the Department

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 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.

Position Duties

The Loudoun County Department of Planning & Zoning is seeking qualified professionals for a Planner III position in the Community Planning Division. Loudoun County is a large and rapidly growing community in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area with 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 County's rural west.

A successful Planner III will primarily support the interpretation and implementation of the County's land use and planning policies as laid out in the Loudoun County 2019 Comprehensive Plan. This position will be responsible for reviewing complex land development proposals for consistency with County policy; providing technical assistance to project managers for area plans, comprehensive plan amendments, and special planning studies; and providing State Corporation Commission reviews and assisting with the Capital Needs Assessment and Capital Improvement Program.

Candidates must be able to communicate effectively with an array of stakeholders, meet deadlines, and maintain product quality while managing multiple assignments. As a member of Community Planning, a successful candidate will work closely with applicants, the Planning Commission, the Board of Supervisors, other Boards/Commissions, staff from a variety of County agencies, and the public. A successful candidate may provide support to Boards and Commissions, such as the Historic District Review Committee.

This position is eligible for a $6,000 hiring bonus in accordance with the County’s Hiring and Retention Bonus Program. 
Hiring salary is commensurate with experience

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Management, Public Administration, Urban Management, Architecture, Business Administration, Landscape Architecture, Geography, or related field; three (3) years of related work experience in professional planning preferably in a government setting OR Master’s degree in Planning, Management, Public Administration, Urban Management, Architecture, Business Administration, Landscape Architecture, Geography, or related field; including one (1) year of professional planning experience ; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

The successful candidate must be customer service focused and exhibit excellent writing, presentation, and analytical skills (emphasis on policy analysis); facilitation and problem-solving skills; the ability to communicate effectively with staff, applicants, and the public, as well as elected and appointed officials; and 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.

Other Qualifications

This position requires a valid driver’s license, driving record, and criminal background check. Relocation assistance is available to successful candidates who live more than 40 miles away. After an initial training period, teleworking 2 days a week is an option.