Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this ever-evolving world, the focus on Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys has never been more critical.

As environmental concerns become increasingly prominent, and safety standards become more stringent, the demand for proficient legal professionals who can navigate, reinforce, and protect our environmental and safety legislations grows more intense.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricate aspects of environmental health and safety law,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive and adaptable Environmental Health and Safety Attorney job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys specialize in legal matters relating to environmental health, workplace safety, and regulations.

They are experienced in interpreting and applying environmental regulations and laws to ensure that companies, organizations, and individuals comply.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Advising clients on legal matters pertaining to environmental health and safety regulations
• Reviewing and interpreting new and existing legislation, including federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations
• Representing clients in court proceedings, hearings, and negotiations related to environmental and safety issues
• Preparing legal documents, such as contracts, dispositions, and pleadings
• Conducting research and analysis to support legal proceedings and provide informed advice
• Advising businesses on their responsibilities and potential liabilities under environmental laws
• Developing and implementing strategies to address compliance issues and minimize legal risks
• Working closely with environmental consultants and experts to understand technical details related to cases
• Educating clients on preventative measures and best practices to avoid legal issues and ensure compliance with environmental health and safety regulations
• Remaining updated on current and emerging trends in environmental health and safety law

 

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated Environmental Health and Safety Attorney to join our team.

This position involves ensuring compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations by providing expert legal counsel, conducting risk assessments, and developing company policies.

The ideal candidate should have in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal environmental health and safety laws, with a proven track record in legal research, case preparation, and court representation.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on environmental, health, and safety issues to ensure company compliance
• Conduct legal research and risk assessments related to environmental and safety laws
• Develop and implement company policies and procedures regarding environmental, health, and safety issues
• Prepare and review legal documents such as contracts, leases, and permits
• Represent the company in court cases, mediations, and negotiations
• Stay updated with latest environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations
• Coordinate with other departments for EHS compliance and training programs
• Handle insurance and liability cases related to environmental and safety incidents

 

Qualifications

• A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
• License to practice law in the state
• Proven experience as an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal environmental health and safety laws
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Health and Safety Attorney
• Work Environment: Office setting, with occasional travel for court appearances and consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Attorney or Legal Department Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $140,000 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 Health and Safety Attorney Do?

Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations.

They typically work for legal firms, corporations, government agencies, or as independent consultants.

Their primary role is to provide legal advice to corporations or individuals regarding environmental regulations and safety standards.

This can involve interpreting complex legislation, advising on compliance strategies, and providing assistance in disputes related to environmental or safety issues.

Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys often represent clients in court in cases related to environmental pollution, workplace safety violations, or other related issues.

They prepare legal documents, conduct research, gather evidence, and present arguments in court to defend their client’s interests.

They work closely with other professionals, including environmental scientists, safety officers, and regulators, to understand the details and implications of each case.

This collaboration is vital to ensure that all legal advice and actions taken are based on a thorough understanding of the scientific, technical, and regulatory aspects of the case.

Furthermore, Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys play a significant role in shaping policies and procedures related to environmental protection and workplace safety.

They may work with government agencies to draft new legislation, or with corporations to develop internal policies that align with environmental and safety regulations.

Finally, they also have a responsibility to keep abreast of changes in environmental and safety laws, and to educate their clients about these changes and their potential impacts.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Qualifications and Skills

An Environmental Health and Safety Attorney should have a diverse set of skills and qualifications to handle the complexities of environmental, health, and safety regulations, such as:

• Thorough understanding of environmental, health, and safety laws, regulations, and standards on a local, state, and federal level.
• Strong research skills to stay updated with evolving regulations and case law.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively present complex legal arguments and explain regulations to clients, court officials, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to handle a high workload, manage multiple cases simultaneously, and work under pressure to meet strict deadlines.
• Outstanding problem-solving skills to identify potential legal issues and develop strategic solutions.
• Strong negotiation skills to reach settlements and agreements on behalf of clients.
• Detail-oriented approach to ensure compliance with intricate legal procedures and documentation requirements.
• Superb analytical skills for interpreting laws, rulings, and regulations in a variety of contexts.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Experience Requirements

Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys typically possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, having gained a significant amount of theoretical and practical experience in the field of law.

In addition to their legal education, entry-level candidates often have 1-2 years of experience, commonly achieved through internships, clerkships, or part-time roles in a law firm or corporate legal department.

This experience should ideally be in the environmental, health, and safety law sector.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have honed their skills and knowledge through practice in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies dealing with environmental health and safety regulations and legislation.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically well-versed in regulations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Act (EPA), and other related laws.

They may also have experience managing cases, negotiating settlements, and providing guidance on compliance issues.

Senior-level candidates often have more than 10 years of experience, demonstrating proficiency in complex litigation and regulatory matters, as well as a depth of knowledge in federal, state, and local environmental and safety laws.

They may have a track record of successfully representing clients in administrative proceedings and court litigations, and might have leadership experience in their background, making them suitable for managerial or team-lead positions.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys typically need to have a bachelor’s degree, followed by a law degree from an accredited law school.

The bachelor’s degree can be in any field, but those who wish to specialize in Environmental Health and Safety often choose relevant fields such as Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry or Engineering.

After their bachelor’s degree, candidates should attend law school, typically a three-year program.

In law school, they should focus on courses that cover environmental law, corporate law, litigation, and regulatory law.

Most states require attorneys to pass the Bar Examination to legally practice law.

This exam tests knowledge on various aspects of law, including the specific legal considerations in environmental health and safety.

Some Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys may further their expertise by pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM) in Environmental Law or a related area.

This is not a requirement but can help to advance their career.

In addition to formal education, these professionals should have a thorough understanding of environmental regulations, health and safety standards, and corporate compliance.

Continued training and staying current on changes in environmental law and regulations is critical for this role.

Many professionals in this field also choose to join relevant professional organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources, to access networking and continued learning opportunities.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Salary Expectations

An Environmental Health and Safety Attorney earns an average salary of $120,910 (USD) per year.

The actual income can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience in the field, the caliber of the law school the attorney graduated from, the city or state in which they practice, and the size and type of their employer, whether it’s a large corporate entity, a government agency, or a private law firm.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Attorney Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney need?

Environmental Health and Safety Attorneys should have excellent research skills, strong analytical abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of environmental laws and regulations.

Communication and negotiation skills are crucial as they often have to negotiate settlements and communicate complex legal matters to clients or officials.

Attention to detail is vital as they deal with intricate legal documents and regulations.

 

What is the educational requirement for an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney?

To become an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney, one needs to possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

This is after obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

In addition, passing the bar examination in the state where they intend to practice is mandatory.

Some attorneys may also have additional degrees or experience in environmental science or related fields.

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney resume?

A professional resume of an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney should include their educational qualifications, bar admission details, and relevant work experience.

Additional qualifications in environmental science or a related field can be a plus.

Evidence of experience in handling environmental cases, familiarity with health and safety regulations, and a track record of successful negotiations or litigation can be strong indicators of a suitable candidate.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Health and Safety Attorney?

A good Environmental Health and Safety Attorney should be detail-oriented and have a deep understanding of complex environmental laws and regulations.

They should also possess excellent negotiation and communication skills to represent their clients effectively.

They should have strong ethical standards and a commitment to protecting the environment and public health.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney?

Hiring an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney can be challenging as it requires finding a candidate with a unique blend of legal knowledge, understanding of environmental and safety regulations, and experience in related cases.

However, a well-planned recruitment strategy that includes clear job descriptions, competitive compensation, and the use of professional networks or recruitment agencies can help attract suitable candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the real essence of being an Environmental Health and Safety Attorney.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about litigation and laws.

It’s about championing environmental well-being and safety measures, one policy at a time.

With our ready-to-use Environmental Health and Safety Attorney job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to make your next career move.

But why halt your momentum?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting laser-sharp job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every environmental policy is a step towards a healthier, safer world.

Let’s safeguard that future. Together.

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