Job Description

Please note that Jackson Walker is not currently accepting search firm submissions in connection with this opening.

Land Use Planner

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Land Use

Jackson Walker, the largest law firm in Texas, has an exciting full-time employment opportunity for a Land Use Planner in our Austin office. The Land Use Planner handles zoning or entitlement cases, working side-by-side with attorneys and clients on an array of development projects.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Specific duties of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Your day will be spent performing a range of duties by supporting efforts between attorneys, clients, co-consultants, developers, and/or City and County staff.
• Under the supervision of an attorney, you may draft and revise documents related to the acquisition, development, zoning, subdivision, and site planning of real estate and easements.
• You will prepare applications and supporting documentation related to land use including zoning and entitlements.
• You may work independently or manage project teams, guiding them through the zoning or entitlement process.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience preparing and filing project applications and effectuating permits in local and state jurisdictions
• Experience drafting or working on local Comprehensive/Master Plans, Zoning Ordinance code sections, and reviewing environmental and engineering documents/plans
• Experience communicating with clients, co-consultants (engineers, traffic consultants, architecture and planning firms), City or County staff and/or appointed and elected officials
• Proficient user of Microsoft 365 suite – Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
• Proficient in public speaking
• Must be detail-oriented with strong execution and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to thrive in a team-oriented and collaborative working environment
• Exemplary verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrate the ability to think critically and show initiative
• Ability to handle confidential documents and information appropriately
• Contribute to and execute the goals of the team

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required.

Preferred certifications:

1. AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners)
2. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
3. LS (Landscape Engineer)
4. PE (Professional Engineer)

Years of Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience working for a City or County in Central Texas in the subdivision, planning, zoning or development department(s) or in a law firm setting supporting a Land Use or Real Estate practice group.
• City of Austin working experience highly preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise and temperature.
• Some travel is expected for this position – travel to attend external meetings occasionally required.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that employment decisions be based on job-related factors.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact us at BusinessProfessionalRecruiting@jw.com