JOB DESCRIPTION

Application deadline: 2/6/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

The Urban Centers Section in the Department of Planning and Development seeks a Senior Planner to review and provide comments on developer rezoning applications in the Tysons and Reston areas, focusing on Comprehensive Plan guidance, the county Zoning Ordinance, and urban design guidelines. The planner will help solve complex challenges associated with urban style redevelopment, including balancing site design, land use, and infrastructure needs for projects along the Metrorail’s Silver Line and as well as other urbanizing, transit-oriented areas of Fairfax County.

Responsibilities include participating in a collaborative team environment, representing the guidance of both the Comprehensive Plan and associated urban design guidelines. Application evaluation and implementation activities are focused on urban design; placemaking; streetscape and roadway design; utility and infrastructure impacts; urban parks; land use, and industry best practices.

The planner will also manage the development and implementation of urban design guidelines, progress reports, planning tools, plan guidance, and policy updates, as needed. The planner will establish and maintain relationships with community groups, businesses, and professional organizations and assist with outreach, collaboration, information-sharing, current planning, and long-term planning to strengthen the public-private dynamic.

The successful candidate must be able to work both independently as a researcher or dedicated resource for Urban Centers Section activities and in a team environment, particularly on special projects that address the challenges of urban style and infill development. The position requires preparation of a variety of written materials including land use and urban design analyses, reports, studies, and public hearing items. The planner will make presentations before a variety of audiences, such as county staff, citizen groups, as well as the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors. Performs other duties as assigned.

Note: In accordance with current Fairfax County telework and personnel policies, this position is eligible for partial telework. Telework enrollment and continuance are subject to supervisor approval and County policy.