PLANNING PROJECT MANAGER

Full Job Description

Representing a leader in the industry, we are searching for a knowledgeable and proactive Land Use and Planning/Zoning Project Manager to join their land use/real estate development team in their Hackensack, NJ office. This role is pivotal in driving our projects from conceptualization through to completion, ensuring compliance with legal standards and municipal requirements.
Responsibilities:
• Lead and manage land use, zoning, and planning projects, overseeing all phases of development including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
• Act as the primary liaison between consultants and municipal boards to facilitate project approval processes.
• Prepare and present detailed project reports and presentations to municipal administrations, planning boards, municipal councils, and community groups.
• Attend, participate in, and occasionally lead planning-related public meetings, workshops, and discussions.
• Provide strategic advice on zoning, land use, SEQRA, and other regulatory compliance matters.
• Coordinate with legal teams, architects, engineers, and consultants to ensure project objectives align with local regulations and community expectations.
• Manage the sequencing of review processes and understand the overview of municipal players to streamline project approvals.
• Advise on tax assessment challenges, property tax implications for developments, and negotiate redevelopment agreements when necessary.
• Conduct zoning reviews for site acquisitions and draft development agreements to facilitate construction projects.

Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in a related field such as: Urban Planning, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Real Estate Development, or Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in land use planning, zoning, and project management within a real estate development context.
• Strong understanding of municipal land use law and the intricacies of planning and zoning processes.
• Experience in representing projects before planning and zoning boards is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and strong online research skills.
• Licensed Attorney in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut is a plus but not required.

The Ideal Candidate:
• Is a strategic thinker with a problem-solving mindset.
• Demonstrates strong leadership capabilities and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.