CEQA Associate Attorney

A law firm seeks a dedicated and skilled CEQA Associate Attorney to join its growing team in Irvine, CA. This position presents an excellent opportunity to work on complex legal matters related to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), providing strategic counsel to public agencies, businesses, and individuals. The firm values an inclusive and collaborative work environment, where every member can contribute to resolving high-stakes legal challenges. The role also offers flexibility with remote work options, and the chance to be a part of a dynamic and supportive team.

Duties

• Advise clients on legal compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), ensuring that all projects and development plans adhere to environmental regulations.
• Represent clients in CEQA-related litigation, including challenges to environmental reviews, assessments, and approvals.
• Conduct legal research on environmental regulations and case law to support CEQA compliance and litigation strategies.
• Draft, review, and negotiate environmental documents and reports required under CEQA, including environmental impact reports (EIRs), mitigated negative declarations (MNDs), and initial studies.
• Assist in public hearings, providing legal guidance, and helping clients navigate the regulatory process.
• Collaborate with clients, government agencies, environmental consultants, and other stakeholders to develop legal strategies and ensure project compliance with environmental laws.
• Keep clients informed of developments and changes in CEQA law, offering proactive advice to mitigate risks and delays in projects.
• Participate in policy discussions and engage in public relations efforts when appropriate to advocate for the client’s interests.
• Provide legal analysis and counsel on various environmental laws, including California’s environmental policies and regulations.

Requirements

• Proven experience in environmental law with a focus on CEQA.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations, environmental reviews, and California-specific environmental laws.
• Experience representing clients in CEQA-related disputes, including litigation and administrative challenges.
• Ability to advise clients on the strategic legal and regulatory aspects of environmental compliance and permitting.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret and apply complex legal principles.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities, with a focus on collaborating effectively with both internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Capable of managing a diverse workload and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Education

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

Certifications

• Admitted to practice law in California.

Skills

• Expertise in CEQA and other environmental regulations.
• Strong litigation skills, including experience handling environmental disputes and legal challenges.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and drafting abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• High attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to provide proactive legal counsel.
• Ability to communicate legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders.
• Comfortable working with various environmental consultants and experts.

Benefits

• Flexible work options with remote work possibilities.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives.
• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.

This is a great opportunity for a motivated attorney with a passion for environmental law and CEQA. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact on projects that shape California’s development while advancing your legal career, we encourage you to apply.

This is a full-service law firm with more than 150 attorneys in offices strategically located to serve California's fastest growing communities. In meeting the needs of public and private sector clients, it offers unique experience in handling complex, multi-disciplinary issues and providing solutions of common interest to leaders of both business and government.