Environmental Partner

Job Overview:
A full-service national law firm is seeking a seasoned Environmental Partner to lead its Environmental Practice Group. This role is ideal for a senior-level attorney with over a decade of experience handling complex environmental issues, particularly in the context of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), CERCLA liabilities, and regulatory compliance. The position offers significant client engagement, leadership responsibilities, and the opportunity to advise a diverse client base with domestic and international operations.

Location:

• Denver, Colorado

Duties:

• Lead environmental due diligence in M&A transactions, including assessing environmental risk and advising on insurance procurement

• Draft and negotiate environmental provisions in transaction documents

• Serve as lead environmental counsel on major deals

• Advise clients on federal and state permitting, compliance, and enforcement matters

• Represent clients in interactions with environmental agencies

• Provide legal analysis on a broad range of environmental laws (CERCLA, RCRA, CAA, CWA, TSCA, ESA, etc.)

• Oversee and manage environmental consultants and expert witnesses

• Evaluate environmental assessments (Phase I, II ESAs) and hazardous materials issues

• Contribute to firm growth through business development and client relationship management

• Serve as a strategic advisor to clients on long-term environmental risk mitigation and corporate stewardship initiatives

Requirements:

• Minimum 10 years of experience practicing environmental law

• Extensive background in CERCLA liability, due diligence, and regulatory compliance

• Demonstrated experience with hazardous waste management, permitting, and environmental litigation

• Proven ability to work directly with clients and develop business opportunities

• Existing portable book of business (required)

• Experience guiding clients in industries with national and international operations

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Licensed to practice law in Illinois or Colorado, or eligible for admission by UBE score transfer, waiver, or bar examination

Skills:

• Expertise in U.S. environmental law and its state analogs

• Strong legal research and analytical skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities

• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage client relationships

• Skilled at balancing legal risk with practical business outcomes

• Knowledge in emerging areas such as renewable energy, emerging contaminants, endangered species, and wetlands regulation is a plus

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Profit-sharing plan and 401(k)

• Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave

• Hybrid in-office/remote flexibility

• Collaborative, low-turnover work environment

• Strong emphasis on professional development and business leadership