Environment & Land Use Associate

Job Overview:
A prominent law firm is seeking a mid-level associate attorney with 2–5 years of experience to join its Environment & Land Use practice group. This position offers the opportunity to work across diverse sectors such as renewable energy, transportation, utilities, commercial and residential development, and public infrastructure. The ideal candidate will bring strong writing and analytical skills, a passion for environmental law, and the ability to collaborate across legal teams. The role includes early substantive responsibility, cross-practice exposure, and advancement opportunities in a collegial, hybrid work environment.

Location:

• Irvine, CA

Duties:

• Conduct land use and environmental due diligence

• Advise clients on land use entitlements and environmental/resource permitting

• Provide legal counsel on CEQA and NEPA compliance

• Assist with defending zoning and environmental approvals in state and federal courts

• Collaborate with cross-functional practice groups on major infrastructure and development projects

Requirements:

• 2–5 years of relevant legal experience in environment and land use law

• Strong interest in environmental and administrative law

• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines

• Prior experience in CEQA/NEPA counseling and permitting preferred

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Certifications:

• Active membership in the State Bar of California (required)

Skills:

• Excellent writing, research, and analytical capabilities

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

• Effective communicator, capable of working collaboratively across practice areas

• Ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and advise clients on legal risks

Benefits:

• Eligibility for annual bonuses, including 15% of base salary for meeting 1,850 billable hour benchmark

• Hybrid work flexibility

• Opportunities for career growth and internal mobility

• Early access to substantive work and client engagement

• Collaborative environment with access to related groups such as Real Estate, Infrastructure, Eminent Domain, and Government Relations

The mid-sized Orange County office of this full-service firm is very well-known for its appellate work. Insiders claim the firm actively encourages its attorneys to maintain a life outside of the office and the minimum billable requirement is only 1,900 hours/year.