Senior Environmental Lawyer

Job Overview
A prominent law firm is seeking a seasoned Environmental Attorney with substantial experience in energy, infrastructure, and environmental law. This role supports high-value, complex matters involving renewable energy, infrastructure development, and project finance. The ideal candidate will bring deep regulatory knowledge and a proven track record advising on project permitting, environmental risk, and transactional due diligence. This is an opportunity for an experienced legal professional to contribute to groundbreaking work at the intersection of law, policy, and clean energy innovation.

Location: San Antonio, TX

Duties

• Advise clients on U.S. federal and state environmental regulations related to infrastructure and energy projects.

• Lead permitting strategies for utility-scale renewable energy, power, and offshore development projects.

• Manage environmental review processes under NEPA, CEQA, and similar frameworks.

• Provide guidance on site assessment and remediation under CERCLA, RCRA, and state programs.

• Conduct environmental due diligence for project finance and M&A transactions.

• Draft and negotiate environmental provisions in transaction documents.

• Coordinate with lenders, developers, and project counsel on bankability assessments and risk mitigation.

• Review environmental site reports (e.g., Phase I/II ESAs, biological, wetlands, and cultural surveys).

• Address land use and species protection issues including ESA compliance and habitat planning.

• Support energy transition projects involving CCS, carbon markets, and international environmental law.

Requirements

• Minimum 8 years of legal practice in U.S. environmental law.

• Proven experience in permitting and compliance for major energy and infrastructure projects.

• Strong track record in project finance or M&A transactions.

• Familiarity with real estate and land use implications of environmental laws.

• Ability to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, agencies, and financial stakeholders.

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Admission to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.

Skills

• In-depth understanding of NEPA, CEQA, CERCLA, RCRA, ESA, and permitting laws.

• Strong analytical, drafting, and negotiation skills.

• Experience reviewing technical environmental documentation.

• Knowledge of regulatory agency processes at both state and federal levels.

• Familiarity with energy transition technologies and environmental compliance in cross-border contexts.

• Ability to manage complex timelines and coordinate with clients and consultants under pressure.

Benefits

• Inclusive fertility and family-forming benefits.

• $2,500 vacation stipend for qualifying billable performance.

• Mental health and wellness support (e.g., Lyra therapy sessions, Peloton app membership).

• Spot Pet Insurance.

• Reimbursement for business development activities.

• Executive coaching for qualifying attorneys.

• Paid community service time.

• Competitive referral bonus for legal talent.

• Comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Multiple medical plan options

  • Dental and vision coverage

  • Life and disability insurance

  • 401(k) with profit sharing

  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts

  • Minimum of 20 days PTO annually

  • 14+ weeks paid parental leave

  • 11 paid holidays annually

This highly-regarded firm, focused on rapid global growth, has client interaction and pro bono work high on its list of achievements. Partners are invested in junior associates and group-specific training sessions are very common. Associates confirm a ?we are in this together? attitude among themselves and partners. This firm is also heavily committed to community outreach and diversity. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.