Entry Level Economic Development Jobs in Virginia

Loudoun County Government has been named one of Forbes' 2025 Best Large Employers! We're proud to be recognized nationally for our commitment to employee satisfaction and excellence in public service. At Loudoun County, we bring together talented professionals from all backgrounds to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, growing community - that's The Loudoun Difference.

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

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Introduction

Located in the western part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Loudoun County is a dynamic community that has experienced significant growth over the past decades with changing development environments, ranging from transit-oriented development at our new Metrorail stations, to redevelopment of existing neighborhoods, to maintaining and fostering our vibrant rural economy in the western part of the county. These factors create a lively atmosphere and agile work environment.
Loudoun County Government, named by Forbes Magazine as one of the 2025 Best Largest Employers, is comprised of County staff who dedicate their talents, education and experience to make a difference. In the Department of Building and Development, we place a high value on work-life balance, professional development and service to our community. Join our team of professionals who are committed to Community, Teamwork and Innovation in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Mission
The Department of Building and Development's mission is to provide premier customer service in a timely and competent manner, and to work with the community and other local government units to create a vibrant and healthy physical, social and economic environment. Services shall be provided in an equitable, respectful, and professional manner.
Vision
The Department of Building and Development is committed to developing premier staff in a supportive learning environment by investing in education, training and work experience that results in a comprehensive knowledge of the department's organizational purpose and importance of each employee's role in the success of the department. We strive for excellence, integrity, and equity in the treatment of our staff.

Job Summary

Loudoun County, Virginia is looking for a skilled and motivated Permit Technician to join the Permits Issuance Division of DBD on the Zoning Permits Team, with back-up support to the Building Permits Team. A Permit Technician position provides an opportunity to contribute to the success of DBD by ensuring that the applications for building, trade and zoning permits are accepted and processed in conformance with the Uniform Statewide Building Code and Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance, and that the permitting process is effectively administered.
Permit Technician I's are entry-level positions with no supervisory responsibilities.
What You'll Do:
* Provide Customer Service Support and Guidance to Applicants: Respond to online requests for information and walk-in inquiries from the public on matters concerning land use regulations and matters concerning the process for obtaining building, trade, and zoning permits. You'll become a subject matter expert on the Loudoun County permitting process and entry level building and zoning permits subject to the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance and provide applicants with the information necessary to achieve approval for their residential or commercial project.
* Project Management Support: Utilizing the county's electronic permitting system, accurately analyze building, trade, and zoning permit applications for completeness, invoice and accept fees, enter permit data, process proffer payments, coordinate permit review referrals, and issue permits. You'll utilize your subject matter expertise to manage the life cycle of a permit.
* Collaborate and Solve Problems: Work with inter-divisional, inter-departmental, and organizational partners, developers, contractors and the public to assist in navigating through multiple overlapping processes, identify potential issues that may arise, and assist with ensuring that timelines are met and issues are adequately addressed. You'll become a trusted partner within your team, the local government organization, and the development community.
* Innovate and Lead: Work in an environment that prioritizes creative thinking and high-quality customer service. You'll contribute to forward-thinking ideas and developing efficiencies in the permitting process.

Hiring salary is commensurate with experience.

Why Loudoun County?
* Flexibility: After your initial training period, you will have the option to telework for up to two days per week. We understand the importance of work-life balance.
* Impactful Work: You'll work on projects that directly impact residential and commercial development in Loudoun County.
* Collaborative, Results-Oriented Culture: Join a team of professionals who value collaboration, innovation, and excellence in customer service. You'll have the opportunity to learn from experts in planning and zoning.
* Growth Opportunities: Our department is committed to your professional development and success, with mentorship and career advancement opportunities.
* Excellent Comprehensive Benefits: We offer a competitive benefits package to support your health, financial security, and lifestyle. Benefits include generous paid holidays and leave, health plans, retirement savings and investment options, employee assistance support, flexible spending accounts, tuition assistance, long-term care insurance, fitness membership discounts, wellness programs, and more.
What We're Looking For:
* A passion for local government and a strong interest in planning and zoning.
* Excellent verbal and written communications skills that demonstrate a high-level of professionalism when working with customers.
* A self-motivated and team-oriented mindset with a focus on internal and external customer service and collaboration.
* A drive for innovation and the ability to think critically and creatively.
* Ideal candidates will be detailed oriented, have experience with building, trade, and zoning permit application intake and processing, familiarity with the Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance or experience with zoning permits, ordinances, and proffer/permit input in other jurisdictions, and the ability to juggle multiple projects and priorities.
If you're ready to take your career to the next level and contribute to the success of Loudoun County, apply now! Applicants should include information that demonstrates how previous work, volunteer, and educational experiences will make them the ideal Permits Division team member.
Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent; two (2) years of related customer service and/or cash handling work experience in a technical work environment involving automated systems; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Job Contingencies and Special Requirements

This position requires both credit and criminal background checks.
Must become certified by the Virginia State Department of Housing and Community Development as a Permit Technician within twelve months (12) of starting employment and maintain the required certifications in accordance with Virginia Certification Standards.

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Equal Employment Opportunity
Loudoun County Government prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that promotes employee wellness and work-life balance. As an equal opportunity employer, we consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors.

Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants who wish to request a reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process should call Human Resources directly at
703-777-0213 or email Human Resources.