Environmental Law Associate

A law firm seeks an Environmental Law Associate to join its team in San Francisco, CA. This position focuses on providing comprehensive legal support for environmental matters, including compliance, litigation, and risk management. The firm offers a dynamic environment that values innovation, collaboration, and diverse perspectives, enabling associates to make meaningful contributions to their clients' success.

Duties:

• Provide strategic counsel on environmental compliance, permitting, and regulatory matters.
• Represent clients in environmental litigation, including cases involving contaminated properties and CERCLA/RCRA disputes.
• Conduct environmental risk assessments for transactions and advise on liability management.
• Support clients in navigating complex regulatory frameworks in industries such as renewable energy, manufacturing, and education.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop practical and creative legal solutions.
• Prepare and review legal documents, including briefs, contracts, and advisory memos.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 1 year of substantive experience in environmental law.
• Strong foundation in legal issues related to contaminated property, CERCLA/RCRA processes, and environmental risk transfers.
• Background in energy or regulatory law is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Active bar admission in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, with eligibility to practice in California preferred.

Skills:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong legal research and analytical capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Excellent judgment, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering high-quality client service.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth in a supportive, collaborative environment.

This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge environmental law matters while developing expertise in a supportive and innovative legal team setting.

The San Francisco office of this mid-sized firm is engaged primarily in litigation and general business, although the firm boasts a solid regulatory and administrative law practice and a respectable labor/employment practice. The firm has a strong pro bono commitment; associates receive full billable hour credit for approved pro bono work, and overall, pro bono comprises 3-5% of all work. The billable hour target is 1850.