Environmental Litigation Associate Attorney

A law firm in Houston, TX, is seeking a highly motivated and knowledgeable Environmental Litigation Associate Attorney to join their legal team. The candidate will work on a variety of complex environmental legal matters, including regulatory compliance, environmental transactions, enforcement actions, and litigation. The role requires deep knowledge of federal and state environmental laws, with a strong focus on CERCLA, and the ability to manage representation in remedial actions. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, a team player, and possesses excellent legal research and writing skills. The firm offers a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional development, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Key Responsibilities

• Environmental Litigation: Represent clients in environmental litigation, particularly cases involving federal and state environmental laws, including CERCLA.
• Legal Research and Writing: Conduct thorough legal research on environmental law issues, draft pleadings, motions, legal memoranda, and briefs.
• Compliance Advisory: Advise clients on compliance with environmental regulations at the state and federal levels, including statutes related to environmental protection, hazardous materials, and remediation.
• Environmental Transactions: Assist with environmental due diligence during real estate and corporate transactions, identifying risks and advising on potential liabilities.
• Case Management: Manage representation of clients requiring remedial actions under federal and state laws, focusing on CERCLA-related cleanup and liability matters.
• Government Interactions: Negotiate with state and federal environmental agencies on behalf of clients regarding enforcement actions, compliance orders, and settlements.
• Client Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, offering tailored legal counsel to meet their specific environmental law needs.
• Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other attorneys and legal support staff to develop case strategies, ensuring effective legal services for clients.

Requirements

• Experience: 2-3 years of experience practicing environmental law, with a particular focus on litigation, regulatory compliance, and enforcement actions.
• Legal Knowledge: In-depth exposure to state and federal environmental laws, including CERCLA, environmental compliance, and enforcement.
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to assess and interpret complex environmental statutes and regulations and apply them to client-specific issues.
• Litigation Experience: Proven ability to manage environmental litigation cases, including representing clients in regulatory disputes and compliance actions.
• Admission: Must be admitted to practice law in the state of Texas or be eligible for admission.

Education and Certifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.): Degree from an accredited law school.
• Bar Admission: Active admission to the Texas State Bar is required.
• Certifications: Additional certifications or coursework in environmental law or related fields are an advantage but not required.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Legal Research and Writing: Strong research and writing skills with the ability to produce high-quality legal documents, including pleadings, briefs, and memoranda.
• Analytical Thinking: Exceptional analytical skills for interpreting environmental laws and applying them to complex legal scenarios.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain intricate legal concepts to clients and colleagues.
• Self-Motivation: Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities with attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously.
• Professional Excellence: Outstanding academic and professional credentials, reflecting a commitment to legal excellence.

Preferred Skills

• CERCLA Experience: Experience working on cases involving CERCLA, including site remediation, liability issues, and environmental cleanups.
• Regulatory Experience: Familiarity with the regulatory framework governing environmental compliance and enforcement actions in Texas and at the federal level.
• Government Agency Negotiations: Experience negotiating with government agencies, including the EPA and state environmental regulatory bodies.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Life, accident, and disability insurance coverage.
• Retirement Benefits: Participation in a 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Commuter Benefits: Access to commuter benefits programs.
• Well-Being Programs: Participation in well-being programs, including work-life balance initiatives, mental health support, and other wellness resources.

Providing a full range of legal and advocacy services across a broad spectrum of industries, this law firm has offices throughout the U.S. and Shanghai. The firm has extensive experience in advising Asia-based businesses with various business-related matters. Founded over seven decades ago, the firm offers innovative solutions to clients' needs through the knowledge and skills of the attorneys and professionals of diverse backgrounds. The firm provides strategic recruiting and mentoring, networking opportunities, career development, and advancement programs. Providing a flexible and supportive environment where everyone can do their best work, the firm rewards employees not only for professional achievements but also for personal contributions to teamwork environment and cooperation among their colleagues. The firm is active in supporting local communities and providing pro-bono service. The firm and attorneys have numerous recognitions and awards for significant industry knowledge and experience and contributions to communities.