PRINCIPAL PLANNER- CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER

The Loudoun County, Virginia Department of Planning & Zoning is seeking a supervisory-level Principal Planner for its Customer Service Center (CSC) Division. The CSC provides first-tier customer service to internal and external customers, including general inquiries from walk-ins, phone calls, emails, and Loudoun Express Request (LEX). The CSC also receives and assists in the processing of Planning and Zoning applications, maintains, and enhances the department’s webpage, and develops public education information on department programs and processes. The Principal Planner will supervise one planning technician and two planners and will serve as back-up for the CSC Manager. The Principal Planner will lead the customer service team in providing exceptional customer service, researching and responding to a variety of customer inquiries, and walking customers through application processes.

Successful candidates must have the ability to lead and manage the work of other professional planners and have strong written and verbal communication skills. The Principal Planner will work closely with the public, applicants, and staff from a variety of other County agencies. Primary responsibilities may include: facilitating pre-application meetings for legislative proposals, facilitating meetings on legislative applications and ordinance amendments, and researching and responding to requests for expedited services from the County Administrator’s Office and the Economic Development Department.

The successful candidate should have a minimum combination of education and experience equivalent to a Master’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, or a related field; four (4) years of related work experience in professional planning or a related field.

One (1) year of supervisory experience is preferred, but not required. Preference may be given to applicants experienced in local government, architecture, and/or urban design, including a minimum of two years of supervision and managing/facilitating rezonings and other development-related applications. American Institute of Certified Planner (AICP) certification is desired.

This position requires excellent customer service, communication, facilitation, and problem-solving skills. Applicants must have senior level knowledge of zoning, land use, design principles, transportation, and environmental planning.

Applicants must possess excellent analytical and research skills and must have the ability to meet deadlines and maintain product quality while managing multiple assignments. 

Attendance at night meetings may be expected.  Positions require a valid driver’s license and driving record check.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of criminal, credit, and DMV background checks. The Department promotes teleworking. This position may qualify for relocation assistance in accordance with County policy.