Utility and Energy Attorney

A law firm in Philadelphia is seeking an experienced Utility and Energy Attorney with a background in renewable energy, including solar and offshore wind. The ideal candidate should have 5+ years of experience, particularly in practice before or with a State Public Utility Commission, such as the NJ Board of Public Utilities. Candidates with prior work experience within government agencies or utility/energy companies are encouraged to apply. Experience practicing before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will also be considered. Admission to the New Jersey Bar is required, with New York and/or Pennsylvania Bar admission preferred.

Duties:

• Provide legal counsel and representation to clients in utility and energy law matters.
• Handle regulatory compliance, licensing, and permitting issues related to utility operations.
• Advise clients on renewable energy projects, including solar and offshore wind initiatives.
• Draft and review contracts, agreements, and documents related to energy transactions.
• Represent clients before regulatory bodies such as the NJ Board of Public Utilities (BPU).
• Conduct legal research and analysis on utility regulations and energy policies.
• Assist clients in navigating complex energy market structures and regulatory frameworks.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to develop legal strategies.
• Stay updated on industry trends, legislative changes, and case law affecting energy law.
• Negotiate and mediate disputes related to utility operations and energy projects.
• Provide guidance on compliance with state and federal energy laws and regulations.
• Handle administrative hearings, appeals, and other legal proceedings.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the New Jersey Bar is required.
• Admission to the New York and/or Pennsylvania Bar is preferred.
• 5+ years of experience practicing utility and energy law.
• Experience with renewable energy projects, particularly solar and offshore wind.
• Prior work experience with government agencies or utility/energy companies.
• Knowledge of state and federal energy regulations, including FERC regulations.
• Familiarity with utility operations, licensing, and permitting processes.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Proficiency in legal drafting and contract negotiation.
• Experience practicing before regulatory bodies such as the NJ BPU.
• Strong understanding of energy market structures and industry practices.

Education:

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Admission to the New Jersey Bar (Required)
• Admission to the New York and/or Pennsylvania Bar (Preferred)

Skills:

• Renewable energy experience (solar, offshore wind).
• Regulatory compliance and licensing knowledge.
• Legal research and analysis abilities.
• Contract drafting and negotiation skills.
• Utility operations and energy market knowledge.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Administrative hearing and appeals experience.
• Compliance with state and federal energy laws.
• Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Benefits Offered:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Health insurance
• Dental and vision coverage
• Retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Collaborative work environment

This firm is absolutely hugewith offices in virtually every legal marketplace in the United States. Why have more people not heard of them? Likely because this firm's work is strongly linked to the insurance industry. Although they have of late attempted to reach out to other industries, insurance companies, who send their litigation and corporate work this firm's way, still make up the lion's share of this firm's business. Although this provides a lot of stability and security, insurance companies usually negotiate for lower hourly rates, which means associate salaries aren't generally at market. The trade-off? Many associates have taken their own cases to trial.