Land Use & Zoning Paralegal

Miller Johnson is seeking a Land Use & Zoning Paralegal to support our attorneys in our Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo offices. The ideal candidate will have a relevant educational background, meaningful experience in land use planning, zoning, or development, and a strong interest in applying that knowledge in a legal environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with land use, zoning, and development matters, including rezonings, site plan approvals, variances, and special use permits.
• Coordinate and prepare application materials for submission to planning commissions, zoning boards of appeal, and local government bodies.
• Conduct research and due diligence related to zoning ordinances, master plans, easements, title issues, and development restrictions.
• Draft and organize documents such as public hearing notices, resolutions, development agreements, and correspondence with municipalities under attorney supervision.
• Track project timelines and maintain organized files for multiple ongoing matters.
• Communicate with municipal staff, consultants, and clients to gather information and coordinate project details.
• Support attorneys with presentations, exhibits, and public hearing preparation, ensuring materials are complete, accurate, and well formatted.
• Provide general real estate and municipal support, including document management, proofreading, and client communications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in urban planning, public policy, real estate, geography, or a related field; associate’s degree in paralegal studies or certification from an accredited program is a plus.
• Experience in land use planning, zoning administration, real estate development, or local government highly preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple active matters and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including comfort communicating with clients and municipal officials.
• Demonstrated initiative, attention to detail, and accountability for quality work.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; proficiency with GIS and other public databases a plus.

Culture & Benefits

At Miller Johnson, our culture is anchored in our Core Values and how we work together:

Who We Are

• Integrity and Candor – We speak the truth
• Down to Earth – We stay humble and real
• Grit – We push through and get it done
• Committed to Excellence – We raise the bar
• Committed to Impact – We lift others up

How We Work

• Entrepreneurial Mindset – We think like owners
• Down to Business – We move fast and stay practical
• Rooted and Invested – We build lasting trust

We are committed to fostering an exceptional work experience that includes a healthy work-life balance and an inclusive culture that values uniquely talented team members. We offer competitive wages, flexible scheduling, paid time off, and annual performance reviews.

Our benefit package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, and a 401(k)-retirement plan.