Energy & Infrastructure Associate

A law firm seeks a Mid- to Senior-level Associate to join its Energy & Natural Resources practice in San Francisco. The successful candidate will have 4–6 years of hands-on experience across project development, construction, mergers and acquisitions, and financing within energy and infrastructure transactions, particularly renewable energy ventures.

Duties

• Guide and support large-scale renewable energy projects from inception through completion, including onshore/offshore wind, solar, and energy storage initiatives

• Structure, negotiate, and finalize engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) agreements and major equipment procurement contracts

• Lead due diligence and transaction coordination for M&A and project finance matters involving energy and infrastructure assets

• Collaborate with senior partners and cross-functional teams to address legal and commercial risks in project development and operational phases

• Draft and review transactional documents, including joint venture agreements, project financing instruments, and regulatory filings

• Advise clients on regulatory compliance, permitting strategies, and risk-mitigation tactics pertinent to energy projects

• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, liaising with engineers, financiers, and technical consultants to ensure seamless deal execution

Requirements

• 4–6 years of relevant transactional experience in energy and infrastructure, with an emphasis on renewable energy projects

• Proven track record handling EPC contracts and equipment procurement for onshore/offshore wind, solar, or energy storage facilities

• Prior involvement in project finance, corporate M&A, and structured financing for energy assets

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively on deal teams and coordinate multiple projects simultaneously

• Strong commercial acumen and familiarity with regulatory landscapes affecting energy development

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., engineering, finance, or environmental studies) preferred but not required

Certifications

• Active membership in a state bar (California bar licensure strongly preferred)

• Any relevant professional certifications in project finance or renewable energy (e.g., LEED, PMP) are advantageous

Skills

• Exceptional drafting and negotiation abilities, especially for EPC, procurement, and financing documents

• In-depth understanding of project development cycles, from land acquisition and permitting through construction and commissioning

• Strong analytical skills to identify and mitigate commercial and regulatory risks

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the capacity to simplify complex technical and legal concepts

• Proven client-management skills, including responsiveness to client needs and proactive problem-solving

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and mentor junior team members

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• Virtual health and mental wellness resources (e.g., Lyra Health EAP)

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Life insurance and accident/hospital indemnity plans

• Paid family leave and paid sick/vacation time

• College savings plan and tuition assistance

• Backup child care and transportation benefit

• Pet insurance and college coaching support

Commitment, value, excellence, and professional development draw associates to this AmLaw100 firm. This firm has been ranked regionally and nationwide for its vast array of varied practice groups, particularly its corporate practice. Associates are drawn to the collaborative effort at this firm, describing their colleagues as ?patient and willing to teach.? Additionally, the efforts the firm makes to develop careers is appealing to attorneys at this firm. The firm puts emphasis on its diversity, as well as its pro bono requirement hours. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.