Real Estate Land Use Attorney

Job Overview

A leading law firm is seeking a Land Use & Zoning Associate to join its Real Estate Practice Group in Princeton, New Jersey. The role focuses on handling land use, zoning, and real estate transactional matters. The position involves active engagement with government entities, planning and zoning boards, and other public bodies, as well as regular interaction with clients and stakeholders. The ideal candidate brings a mix of legal knowledge, practical communication, public speaking skills, and emotional intelligence to navigate complex stakeholder environments and land use proceedings.

Location

• Princeton, NJ

Duties

• Manage New Jersey land use and zoning matters including:

  • Preparing and presenting applications before planning and zoning boards

  • Interfacing with local, county, and regional authorities

  • Advising clients on land use strategy and compliance

• Handle real estate transactional work, including drafting and reviewing agreements

• Maintain frequent communication with clients, municipal officials, and regulatory bodies

• Lead stakeholder meetings and public presentations

• Optional: Participate in land use litigation (experience preferred but not required)

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in:

  • Land use and zoning law

  • Real estate transactions

• Strong interpersonal skills and high emotional intelligence

• Confident public speaker comfortable presenting to decision-making bodies

• Ability to manage matters with diverse and potentially conflicting interests

• Practical problem-solving approach and sound judgment

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

• Strong academic credentials preferred

Certifications

• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in the state of New Jersey

Skills

• Excellent legal research, writing, and presentation skills

• Effective oral communication in both formal and informal settings

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams

• Strong organizational and time management capabilities

• Comfort with public and client-facing responsibilities

Benefits

• Full benefits package available (details provided upon request)

• Meaningful client engagement and leadership opportunities

• Career advancement and professional development support

A terrific national firm with an especially strong Mid-Atlantic presence, this firm is known for empowering associates with substantive work early on in their careers. The firm boasts strong corporate, litigation, and intellectual property departments, as well as a newly minted and fast-growing Health Sciences Department.