Land Use Associate Attorney
8 days ago
Paramus
We are seeking a motivated land use associate attorney to join a highly respected boutique law firm's team near Paramus, NJ. 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.