Land Use and Zoning Attorney

Job Overview

A law firm seeks an experienced Land Use and Zoning Attorney to join their team in Northbrook, IL. The role involves managing complex zoning and entitlement matters, providing strategic counsel, and representing clients before legislative and administrative bodies. The ideal candidate will possess strong judgment, familiarity with land use regulations, and the ability to maintain excellent client relationships.

Duties

• Serve as lead counsel on land use, zoning, and municipal law matters from intake through resolution.
• Advise clients on zoning codes, municipal ordinances, and development strategies.
• Represent clients before municipal boards, zoning boards of appeals, and planning commissions.
• Handle land use-related litigation and enforcement matters.
• Conduct zoning and land use due diligence to identify risks and constraints.
• Negotiate and draft development agreements and ordinances.
• Collaborate with planners, architects, and engineers to ensure complete zoning applications.
• Maintain proactive communication with clients and municipal staff.
• Stay current on changes in zoning, land use, and municipal law.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Active Illinois bar license in good standing.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in land use, zoning, municipal law, or related litigation.
• Experience representing clients before municipal and county boards.
• Strong legal writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage matters independently while contributing to a team environment.
• Client-focused mindset with the ability to explain complex regulatory issues clearly.

Education

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active Illinois bar license in good standing.

Skills

• Strong legal writing and analytical skills.
• Oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage matters independently.
• Collaborative team player.
• Client-focused communication.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Meaningful responsibility and autonomy on cases.
• Collaborative land use and zoning practice.
• Flexible work arrangements with remote support.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership.