Land Use Attorney

We are seeking a motivated land use associate attorney to join a highly respected boutique law firm's team in Jersey City. The ideal candidate has 1–3 years of hands-on experience with municipal land use, zoning, permitting, and administrative hearings in New Jersey, strong client-facing skills, and an ability to manage matter workflow efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent clients before planning boards, zoning boards of adjustment, and municipal agencies in New Jersey.
• Prepare and file applications, variances, site plan materials, and municipal permit packages.
• Draft and negotiate land use-related agreements, escrow/land development conditions, covenants, and consent orders.
• Conduct legal research and prepare memos on municipal land use statutes, local ordinances, and case law.
• Advise developers, property owners, municipalities, and institutional clients on compliance, due diligence, and risk mitigation.
• Prepare hearing materials, witness examinations, and legal arguments; present at hearings.
• Assist with land use litigation, municipal appeals, and administrative enforcement matters.
• Coordinate with planners, engineers, surveyors, and other consultants; manage discovery and case/document organization.
• Maintain client communications and assist partners in business development and proposals.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• 1–3 years practicing land use, zoning, municipal law, or closely related area.
• Admission to the New Jersey bar preferred; NJ bar-eligible candidates will be considered.
• Practical experience with planning/zoning board procedures, variances, site plans, and municipal permitting.
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to organize and manage multiple matters and meet deadlines.
• Professional demeanor, client-service orientation, and collaborative teamwork.
• Familiarity with local land use ordinances, the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL), and relevant NJ case law preferred.