Development Review Specialist

The Office of Planning is hiring a Development Review Specialist. Come help shape the future of DC!

JOB SUMMARY

This position is located in the Office of Planning (OP), Office of the Director, within the Development Review function. The mission of the Office of Planning is to plan for the long- term growth and development of the District of Columbia and guide development in the District’s neighborhoods through research and analysis, community and stakeholder engagement, stewardship of historic resources, and development and publication of planning documents, including the Comprehensive Plan.   

The position serves as a Development Review Specialist and performs professional administrative work involving the research, analysis, and evaluation of development and zoning proposals for conformance with the District Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Regulations, environmental requirements, applicable plans, codes, ordinances, policies, and established procedures. The incumbent evaluates development proposals of varying size and complexity, interprets applicable planning and zoning requirements, identifies issues affecting proposed development, and develops findings and recommendations for consideration by agency officials and applicable boards and commissions.

 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This position involves researching, analyzing, and evaluating development proposals, zoning applications, and related projects to ensure they meet the requirements of the District Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Regulations, environmental standards, and other applicable plans and policies. You will review Planned Unit Developments, special exceptions, variances, zoning amendments, and Comprehensive Plan amendments to identify planning, zoning, environmental, and land‑use considerations that may influence the character, use, or future development of individual properties and surrounding neighborhoods.

The role also requires analyzing projects of varying size and complexity to identify interconnected planning, regulatory, and environmental issues, then preparing clear findings and recommendations to support effective decision‑making. You will interpret and apply planning principles, zoning requirements, and regulatory guidance; prepare and present technical analyses; and coordinate with District agencies to gather information, support environmental assessments, and resolve issues related to development proposals. In addition, you will communicate with applicants, developers, architects, engineers, attorneys, property owners, and community stakeholders to explain requirements, clarify information, and address issues throughout the development review process.  Skill in using GIS/mapping and other applicable software sufficient to research, analyze, document, and present information related to development review and planning matters. 

QUALIFICATIONS & EDUCATION

Specialized experience is experience which is directly related to the position and has equipped the individual with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. To be creditable, the incumbent must possess at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licenses and Certifications

None

Working Conditions/Environment 

The work is performed mainly in an office setting, except for periodic outdoor surveys, site visits, and presentations to other entities. 

Other Significant Factors

Tour of Duty:  8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  Participation in evening meetings and occasional weekend meetings required.

Pay Plan, Series and Grade:  CS-0301-12

Promotion Potential: No known promotion potential

 
Position Designation: This position has been designated as Security Sensitive. Pursuant to section 410 of Chapter 4 of the D.C. Personnel Regulations; in addition to the general suitability screening, individuals applying for or occupying security sensitive positions are subject to the following checks and tests: designation is security/ add this statement 

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union): This position is covered under a collective bargaining unit AFGE Local 6311, and you may be required to pay union dues through direct payroll deduction. This position is subject to general suitability screening; verification of employment history, reference checks and degree/license, as applicable. The appointee to the position may be offered employment contingent upon receipt of a satisfactory general suitability screening.

Residency Preference

 When claiming residency preference, you are required, and must agree in writing, to maintain bona fide District residency for a period of seven (7) consecutive years from the effective date of employment. You will be required to present documents (proofs) to show District residency and failure to maintain bona-fide District residency for the seven-year (7-year) period will result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement 

The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.