Mid-Level Litigation Associate Attorney - Environmental Law

Direct Counsel is seeking a Mid-Level Litigation Associate to join a prestigious Am Law 100 firm’s Environmental Litigation practice group. This position is open to California-admitted attorneys interested in working in one of the firm’s California offices, including Palo Alto, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego.

Qualifications:

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

• Admission to practice in California

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience

• Prior law firm or agency experience preferred

Required Experience & Skills:

• Strong background in environmental law, with experience handling key environmental statutes and regulations, including CERCLA, RCRA, and related California laws.

• Experience in environmental litigation, enforcement defense, and regulatory compliance.

• Familiarity with California state environmental agencies is required; federal agency experience is a plus.

• Ability to advise clients on emerging environmental issues, regulatory requirements, liability exposure, and public relations matters.

• Experience negotiating agreements related to compliance, cost recovery, and permitting or regulatory issues.

• Comfort working with environmental consultants and understanding the technical aspects of environmental operations and remediation.

• Experience with sediment-based contamination and remediation is a plus.

• Preferred experience representing clients in heavy industries, defense industries, chemical manufacturing, and/or maritime industries.

• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced environment.

Job Expectations:

• Engage in complex environmental litigation and regulatory compliance matters.

• Provide strategic legal counsel on environmental regulations and risk management.

• Collaborate with clients, colleagues, and environmental experts to develop case strategies.

• Effectively manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.

Work Environment:

• Hybrid work arrangement with regular in-office presence and some remote flexibility.

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected salary range for this position is $260,000 - $390,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) plan.

Direct Counsel and the hiring firm are equal opportunity employers, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.