Environmental Attorney Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of climate change, the need for environmental attorneys has never been more urgent.

As environmental issues escalate, the demand for skilled advocates who can navigate, promote, and defend our environmental policies becomes crucial.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s actually expected from an environmental attorney?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of environmental law,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable environmental attorney job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Environmental Attorney Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Attorneys specialize in legal issues related to environment, including water, air, land, and wildlife.

They represent public interest groups, waste disposal companies, or construction firms in their dealings with state and federal agencies.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Research, interpret, and apply environmental laws and regulations
• Prepare and present legal documents, such as contracts, deeds, and lawsuits
• Provide legal advice to clients on environmental regulations and policies
• Represent clients in court cases related to environmental law
• Communicate with government agencies on behalf of their clients
• Work with scientists and experts to understand environmental impacts of certain actions
• Assist clients in securing required permits and licenses for their operations
• Participate in the development of strategies to manage or mitigate environmental risks
• Stay updated on changes to environmental legislation and regulations

 

Environmental Attorney Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Environmental Attorney to join our legal team.

As an Environmental Attorney, you will be responsible for representing the interests of clients in legal proceedings, drawing up legal documents, and managing or advising clients on legal transactions pertaining to environmental issues.

The ideal candidate should have a proven track record in environmental law, with a firm understanding of federal, state, and local environmental regulations.

Your goal will be to provide expert legal support that helps our clients navigate through complex environmental issues.

 

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in court or before government agencies
• Prepare and draft legal documents, such as wills, deeds, patent applications, mortgages, leases, and contracts
• Advise clients concerning business transactions, claim liability, advisability of prosecuting or defending lawsuits, or legal rights and obligations
• Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses
• Study Constitution, statutes, decisions, regulations, and ordinances of quasi-judicial bodies to determine ramifications for cases
• Present and summarize cases to judges and juries
• Evaluate findings and develop strategies and arguments in preparation for presentation of cases

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Environmental Attorney
• Thorough knowledge of laws and regulations related to environmental issues
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects
• J.D. degree from an accredited law school and a license to practice law

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Attorney
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel to visit clients or attend court proceedings
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Attorney or Practice Group Leader
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal]

 

What Does an Environmental Attorney Do?

An Environmental Attorney, also known as an Environmental Lawyer, specializes in legal cases involving environmental regulations, disputes and legal matters related to environmental conservation.

They advise and represent individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes that involve the environment.

These can range from air and water quality to wildlife protection.

Their job is to research and understand the laws related to the environment, and use this knowledge to advise clients on how to comply with these laws.

This can include advising on business practices to ensure they are environmentally friendly and sustainable, or representing a client in court if they are accused of violating environmental laws.

Environmental Attorneys also participate in the creation and modification of environmental legislation and policies.

They may work with lawmakers to draft and revise laws, and help shape environmental regulations and standards.

They may also work on public awareness campaigns or advocacy initiatives to educate the public about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Many Environmental Attorneys work for law firms, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, although some may work independently or as consultants.

Their ultimate goal is to protect the environment by ensuring that all legal activities comply with environmental laws and regulations.

 

Environmental Attorney Qualifications and Skills

An Environmental Attorney should have a variety of legal, technical, and soft skills to effectively practice law within the environmental sector, including:

• Knowledge and understanding of environmental laws, regulations, and policies at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret laws and regulations, and to develop effective strategies for clients.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills to represent clients effectively in court, mediations, and meetings with regulatory agencies or opposing counsel.
• Research skills to keep up with changing laws and legal precedents, and to gather and analyze evidence for client cases.
• Organization and detail-oriented skills to manage multiple cases simultaneously, while maintaining thorough documentation for each case.
• Interpersonal skills to build trust and establish relationships with clients, as well as collaborate with other attorneys, experts, and court personnel.
• Advocacy and persuasion skills to present cases effectively in court, and to argue for clients’ interests during negotiations or regulatory proceedings.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and development to stay current with environmental law developments and changes in regulations.

 

Environmental Attorney Experience Requirements

Environmental attorneys typically need a law degree (Juris Doctor) from an accredited law school, which includes gaining theoretical and practical experience during their academic years.

They also need to have passed the state Bar examination to be licensed to practice law.

In terms of experience, entry-level environmental attorneys often have prior experience gained through internships or clerkships at environmental law firms, government agencies or non-profit organizations.

This experience may include research, preparing legal documents, drafting environmental impact statements or helping in litigation proceedings.

Candidates with 2 to 5 years of experience generally have practiced environmental law in a professional capacity, either in private practice, for a government agency, or for a non-profit organization.

They may have a track record of successfully litigating environmental cases, advising clients on environmental regulations, or influencing environmental policy.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have developed a specialization within environmental law, such as climate change law, water law, environmental justice, or conservation law.

These individuals often have a proven record of leadership, with experience managing complex cases, developing strategies for high-profile litigation, or influencing environmental legislation and policy at a high level.

For higher-level positions, such as partner at a law firm or leadership in a government agency or non-profit, significant experience, a strong record of success in environmental litigation or policy-making, and reputation in the field are crucial.

 

Environmental Attorney Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Attorneys typically hold a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, law, political science, or a related field.

To qualify for a career in environmental law, they must then attend law school and earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

While in law school, they should focus on courses relating to environmental law and policy.

It is also advantageous to gain experience through internships or externships with organizations dealing with environmental issues.

After obtaining a JD degree, all Environmental Attorneys must pass their state’s bar examination to become a practicing lawyer.

Many Environmental Attorneys choose to further their education by pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in environmental law, natural resources law, or a related field.

In addition, they can earn a certification from a recognized professional organization, such as the American Bar Association, which provides an additional level of credibility and demonstrates their commitment to this specialized area of law.

Continued education is important in this field due to constant changes in environmental regulations and laws.

 

Environmental Attorney Salary Expectations

An Environmental Attorney can expect to earn an average salary of $113,530 (USD) per year.

The salary range for this role can significantly vary depending on factors such as years of experience, level of specialization, size of the employing firm, and location.

Notably, those based in major cities or regions with significant environmental regulation may earn more.

 

Environmental Attorney Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Attorney need?

Environmental Attorneys should possess excellent research and analytical skills to interpret laws and regulations related to the environment.

They need to have strong communication and persuasion skills to advocate for their clients or the environment in court.

Attention to detail and organizational skills are crucial for managing multiple cases, while a strong understanding of science and environmental issues is equally important.

 

Do Environmental Attorneys need a specific degree?

Yes, Environmental Attorneys need to possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

Prior to that, they must have completed a bachelor’s degree.

Though not mandatory, a degree or coursework in environmental sciences can be beneficial.

They also need to pass the bar examination in the state they wish to practice.

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Attorney resume?

A strong Environmental Attorney resume should highlight a successful track record in environmental law cases, knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations, and excellent negotiation and advocacy skills.

It should also list the candidate’s law degree, bar admission, and any other certifications or experiences related to environmental law, policy, or science.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Attorney?

A good Environmental Attorney is passionate about environmental issues and dedicated to using legal means to protect the environment.

They should have a thorough understanding of environmental law and regulations, the ability to interpret complex legal and scientific information, and excellent negotiation and problem-solving skills.

They should also have strong ethical standards and a commitment to social justice.

 

Is it difficult to hire Environmental Attorneys?

Hiring Environmental Attorneys can be challenging due to the specific skill set and knowledge required.

As environmental law is a specialized field, finding candidates with extensive experience and a deep understanding of environmental regulations and issues can be difficult.

Offering competitive salaries and demonstrating a commitment to environmental causes can help attract top candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it means to be an environmental attorney.

Surprising, right?

It’s not just about courtroom battles and legal jargon.

It’s about safeguarding our planet, one environmental policy at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive environmental attorney job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop at the surface?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every environmental law you argue is part of a grander mission.

Let’s protect our planet. Together.

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