Mid-level Litigation Associate Environmental Law

A law firm seeks a skilled and dedicated mid-level litigation associate to join its Environmental Litigation practice group in Palo Alto. The successful candidate will have significant experience handling environmental litigation, regulatory compliance matters, and enforcement actions. With a focus on environmental law, the role offers the opportunity to work on complex cases involving key environmental statutes such as CERCLA, RCRA, and California laws. This position offers flexibility with a hybrid work environment and exposure to high-profile legal issues within the environmental field.

Duties

• Represent clients in environmental litigation, including defense of enforcement actions and regulatory compliance issues.
• Advise clients on regulatory requirements, liability exposure, and emerging environmental issues, with a focus on California and federal regulations.
• Negotiate agreements regarding compliance, cost recovery, and permitting.
• Work collaboratively with clients and environmental consultants to manage technical aspects of operations and remediation.
• Draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and other litigation-related correspondence.
• Conduct legal research on environmental statutes, regulations, and case law to support case strategy.
• Communicate legal strategies effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and government agencies.
• Manage a caseload efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality and attention to detail.
• Participate in meetings and collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide strategic legal counsel.
• Travel occasionally to attend client meetings, court appearances, and site inspections.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in environmental litigation, regulatory compliance, or related legal fields.
• Experience with key environmental laws such as CERCLA, RCRA, and relevant California state laws.
• Familiarity with California environmental agencies, with federal agency experience a plus.
• Strong understanding of the technical aspects of environmental operations, including remediation.
• Experience in negotiating compliance, cost recovery, and regulatory matters.
• Comfort working with environmental consultants and understanding technical reports.
• Proven ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation abilities, with a persuasive and clear approach.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Admitted to practice in California.

Skills

• Expertise in environmental law, including knowledge of enforcement actions, compliance issues, and litigation.
• Strong legal research and writing skills, with the ability to draft motions, pleadings, and other legal documents.
• High level of business judgment and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle complex legal matters and maintain client relationships.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, capable of handling multiple priorities.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to work independently when needed.
• Experience negotiating agreements and representing clients in high-stakes cases.
• Comfort with technical environmental operations and remediation processes.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Hybrid work schedule with flexible office days.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Competitive compensation with a performance-driven bonus structure.

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated attorney who is looking to expand their career in environmental law. If you’re ready to work on complex and impactful cases in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.

This Amlaw firm is best known for allowing its associates to find a balanced work load that best suites them. As a result, the company operates with an entrepreneurial culture, offers flexible face-time, and values diversity and a work space inclusive of everyone. This firm is also one that values pro-bono work?encouraging their associates to gain real-life experience and take charge of their own opportunities and success.