Renewable Energy Project Development & Finance Associate

Job Overview:
A reputable law firm is seeking an experienced Renewable Energy Project Development & Finance Associate with at least three years of law firm experience to join its corporate practice. The ideal candidate will have an interest in working on complex renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen, and battery storage projects. The role provides an opportunity to work with leading clients in the clean energy space, providing legal counsel on project development, finance, and related transactions. Candidates should be ready for a hands-on role, with opportunities to work directly with clients from day one.

Location:

• Santa Fe, NM

Duties:

• Advise clients on the legal aspects of renewable energy project development and finance.
• Draft, review, and negotiate key agreements, including power purchase agreements, asset purchase agreements, hedge contracts, equipment supply contracts, construction contracts, and more.
• Work on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and corporate transactions within the renewable energy sector.
• Support developers, investors, utilities, and corporate buyers in the financing, buying, selling, and management of renewable energy projects.
• Provide legal guidance on regulatory, environmental, and financial matters impacting renewable energy initiatives.
• Collaborate with a dynamic team to deliver creative and practical legal solutions tailored to clients' needs.
• Take on significant client-facing responsibilities, with direct involvement in managing legal projects and transactions.

Requirements:

• At least 3 years of law firm experience, ideally in project development, finance, mergers & acquisitions, or commercial contracts.
• Experience in renewable energy projects or related sectors is preferred but not required.
• Proficiency in negotiating and drafting agreements such as power purchase agreements, construction contracts, or asset/company sale agreements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to handle complex legal issues and provide clear, practical advice to clients.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Active bar membership in relevant jurisdiction(s) or eligibility to become admitted.

Certifications:

• Bar admission in applicable state(s) or eligibility for admission through reciprocity.

Skills:

• Expertise in project development, finance, and renewable energy-related transactions.
• Strong contract negotiation and drafting abilities.
• Effective research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage complex legal matters and provide client-focused solutions.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A collaborative, team-oriented work ethic.

Benefits:

• Competitive, merit-based salary and performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Unlimited paid time off (PTO) and flexible work hours.
• Generous parental leave program, including enhanced leave for primary and non-primary caregivers.
• Voluntary income protection benefits such as supplemental life, critical illness, and long-term care insurance.
• Continuing Legal Education (CLE) support and professional development programs.
• Wellness programs that promote work-life balance.
• Opportunities for mentorship, career growth, and advancement within a supportive and dynamic team.
• Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equity and creating an environment where all employees can thrive.

This is undoubtedly one of the Mountain West's most distinguished law firms. This firm has super legal work, very good compensation and really emphasizes lifestyle for the associates who join the firm. A large law firm, with offices throughout the United States, this firm has established itself as one of the key power players in the Mountain West legal community. A great number of the attorneys who are a part of this firm are in The Best Lawyers in America. This is undoubtedly one of the best firms to work for in the Mountain West region, and we have heard praises of this firm from virtually every associate we have ever spoken with here. This firm practices in virtually all areas of the law and is strong in most. The largest praises we have heard of this firm are in its corporate and litigation departments.