Real Estate Development Attorney

Miller Johnson seeks a motivated Real Estate Development Attorney to join our Real Estate Practice Group in our Grand Rapids, Detroit, or Kalamazoo offices.This role is ideal for an attorney with a background in real estate, development, energy & sustainability, or municipal law – who may have either a traditional litigation or transactional background – and is interested in complex land use, zoning, and development matters. The attorney in this position will work closely with developers, municipalities, and clients on projects throughout Michigan, with a focus on renewable energy development.We are seeking a collaborative and entrepreneurial attorney who enjoys helping clients move projects forward, providing practical solutions to complex problems, and managing complex development matters from preliminary planning through completion.Key ResponsibilitiesAdvise clients on zoning, land use, and development-related matters, including rezonings, special use permits, site plan approvals, regulatory approvals, and other entitlementsSupport commercial real estate and renewable energy development projects through due diligence, municipal ordinance & regulatory review, land use analysis, and coordination with consultants and municipalitiesDraft and negotiate development-related agreements, including purchase agreements, easements, development agreements, and related transactional documentsCollaborate with planners, engineers, consultants, and attorneys across multiple practice areas to support client objectivesRepresent clients before planning commissions, zoning boards, and municipal bodiesSupport land use disputes, regulatory matters, and development-related conflictsManage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining strong organization and communicationParticipate in client development, networking, and community engagement opportunitiesQualificationsJuris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law schoolActive license (or eligibility for admission) to practice law in Michigan2+ years of experience in commercial real estate, development, land use, zoning, energy & sustainability, municipal law, regulatory, or related practice areas preferredStrong research, drafting, analytical, and client counseling skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentDemonstrated initiative, professionalism, and collaborative mindsetExperience working with developers, municipalities, regulatory agencies, and consultants on development projects is a plusInterest in developing expertise in renewable energy and sustainability policies against the backdrop of rapidly evolving technologiesCulture & BenefitsAt Miller Johnson, our culture is anchored in our Core Values and how we work together:Who We Are:Integrity and Candor – We speak the truthDown to Earth – We stay humble and realGrit – We push through and get it doneCommitted to Excellence – We raise the barCommitted to Impact – We lift others upHow We Work:Entrepreneurial Mindset – We think like ownersDown to Business – We move fast and stay practicalRooted and Invested – We build lasting trustWe 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. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).