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Summary

Under the supervision of attorneys, performs a range of substantive case, matter or entity related duties. Work independently to manage large multi-disciplinary project teams, guiding them through the zoning entitlement process. Coordinate efforts between attorneys, clients, co-consultants, jurisdictional staff and appointed or elected officials.

Location

This position is located in our Los Angeles office and offers a hybrid work schedule.

Responsibilities

• Prepares applications and supporting documentation for matters related to land use including zoning relief, local ordinances and property searches.
• Drafts findings and project descriptions, statements of justification, researching code sections and reviewing environmental and engineering documents/plans (EIR/MND).
• Lead the work of other Land Use Planners as well as government employees and external agencies.
• Coordinates the Municipal Lobbying Ordinance reporting process.
• Assists with the entitlement process and transitional housing entitlement projects.
• Assists with preparation, recording and filing of documents related to the acquisition, development, finance and disposition of real property across jurisdictions.
• Under supervision of a lawyer, drafts and revises term sheets, letters of intent, agreement of sale, leases, deed, easements and rights of way.
• Assists with all aspects of land development and/or subdivision approval process including municipal rezoning requests, variances and other forms of zoning relief.
• Other duties as assigned.

Desired Skills    

Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint. Excellent communication skills required to interact with clients, co-consultants, jurisdictional staff and appointed/elected officials. Must be able to work independently to manage large multi-disciplinary project teams and guiding them through the zoning entitlement process. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Minimum Education    

• Bachelor's Degree.
  
  

Certificates

·       Paralegal certificate is required. For California Paralegals: Must meet the California Paralegal requirements.

Minimum Years of Experience  

• 10+ experience in a law firm setting supporting a Real Estate practice group. Must have experience requesting public records from public agencies, preparing and filing project application packages and effectuating permits in specific jurisdictions. Experience must include drafting findings and project descriptions, statements of justification, researching code section and reviewing environmental and engineering documents/plans (EIR/MND). Experience working in a large law firm preferred.
  
  

Essential Job Expectations

All DLA Piper employees are expected to demonstrate excellence in how we serve our clients and develop our people, upholding our firm values as part of our culture. Specific expectations include:

• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and external audiences.
• Produce high-quality work and respond to correspondence in an efficient, timely, and professional manner.
• Meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, and commit to meeting high standards.
• Comply with firm policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidences as required in a law firm environment.
  
  

Physical Demands

Sedentary work: This is primarily sedentary work, requiring occasional exertion of up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. The role involves sitting for extended periods, with occasional walking and standing, and occasional travel, both domestic and international.

Work Environment   

The individual selected for this position may have the opportunity for a hybrid work arrangement combining remote and in-office work. The specific arrangement will be determined at the time of hiring and may be modified at the firm's discretion.

Disclaimer   

The purpose of this job description is to provide a concise statement of the work elements and to organize and present the information in a standardized way. It is not intended to describe all the elements of the work that may be performed by every individual in this classification, nor should it serve as the sole criteria for personnel decisions and actions. The job duties, requirements, and expectations for this position may be modified at the Firm’s discretion at any time. This job description does not change the at-will nature of employment.

Application Process    

Interested candidates must apply directly online. Application materials sent via email will not be accepted.

Accommodation   

Reasonable accommodations may be made upon request to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position or participate in the selection process. For accommodation requests, please contact [email protected].

Agency applications will not be considered.

No immigration sponsorship is available for this position.

This job description provides a concise overview of the role and is not intended to describe all work elements that may be performed. It should not serve as the sole criteria for personnel decisions. Job duties, requirements, and expectations may be modified at the firm's discretion at any time. This job description does not alter the at-will nature of employment.

We are committed to excellence in how we serve our clients and develop our people.

The firm’s expected hiring range for this position is $77.48 - $102.67 per hour depending on the candidate’s geographic market location. Non-exempt positions will be paid on an hourly basis and paid overtime in accordance with applicable laws.

The compensation offered for employment will also be dependent on other factors including the candidate’s experience, skills, educational and professional background, and overall qualifications. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

Non-California applicants who apply for this California-based role do so voluntarily and are not eligible for relocation assistance. Relocation benefits, if any, are provided only where a relocation is required at the firm’s direction and in accordance with applicable policy and law.

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DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Job applicant poster viewing center.