JOB DESCRIPTION

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. \

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.

Minimum Requirements: 

• 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.     

Desirables: 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.