Senior Environmental Attorney

A law firm is seeking a Senior Environmental Attorney with over 5 years of experience to join the environmental section of its Environment, Land Use, and Natural Resources practice in Seattle, WA. The attorney will handle a variety of legal matters involving state and federal environmental regulations, compliance issues, contaminated site cleanup, and environmental aspects of real estate and corporate transactions. The role requires strong communication and writing skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex legal matters independently.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise clients on compliance with environmental laws, including chemical reporting, stormwater management, waste characterization, and disposal.
• Manage and provide legal guidance on the cleanup of contaminated sites under state and federal regulations.
• Represent clients in responding to government information requests, conducting investigations, and handling enforcement actions.
• Defend clients in citizen suits and toxic tort cases, ensuring effective legal strategies.
• Provide counsel on the environmental aspects of real estate and corporate transactions, including risk identification and allocation.
• Negotiate and draft environmental provisions in transaction documents, ensuring the protection of client interests.
• Obtain, review, and analyze environmental site assessments and other due diligence materials.
• Stay informed about changes in environmental laws and regulations, advising clients on potential impacts and necessary adjustments.
• Collaborate with other attorneys and legal professionals within the firm to provide comprehensive legal services to clients.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental law, focusing on state and federal cleanup, compliance, and environmental transactions.
• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations at both state and federal levels.
• Proven experience in advising on environmental aspects of corporate transactions and real estate deals.
• Ability to independently manage complex legal matters and provide sound legal advice.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex legal concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong judgment and decision-making capabilities, with a focus on achieving client goals.
• Proficiency in negotiating and drafting legal documents related to environmental matters.

Education and Certifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Membership in good standing with the Bar in one or more of the following states: Alaska, California, District of Columbia, Idaho, Minnesota, Oregon, Utah, or Washington (required).

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to solve complex legal issues.
• Excellent listening skills, with the ability to understand and address client needs effectively.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Knowledge of environmental site assessments and related due diligence processes.

Job Location

• Seattle, WA

Benefits

• Paid family & medical leave, including an on/off-ramp program for expecting parents.
• Unlimited PTO with a flexible schedule program.
• Remote work options available to support work-life balance.
• Sabbatical program for eligible attorneys.
• Competitive medical, dental, vision, life, long-term disability, AD&D, EAP, FSA, and Voluntary Life, ADD, and LTC options.

Areas of specialization are transactional and litigation law. Law offices are based in seven states across the U.S. The law practice was founded in 1907. Practice areas are extensive. A sizable team of talented attorneys are on staff. The firm and attorneys have received accolades from numerous industry publications and groups over the years. Diversity in the work force is endorsed at the law practice.