Assistant Attorney General - Natural Resources

State of Utah•Salt Lake City, UT

21h•Onsite

About The Position

The Office of the Attorney General, Natural Resources Division, is hiring an attorney to represent the Department of Natural Resources. The attorney will advise the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands on state and federal legal issues involving sovereign lands, conservation easements, forestry programs, and related matters. The position is based in Salt Lake City and is performed in-office/on-site. Membership in the Utah State Bar and qualification for admission to the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah are required. The role requires strong written and oral advocacy, clear communication, and the ability to work effectively with a team. Travel to court locations, including overnight stays, may be required. A satisfactory background investigation is required as a condition of employment.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate.
Active membership in the Utah State Bar.
Qualification for admission to the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah.
Excellent written and oral advocacy skills.
Ability to communicate ideas and information clearly and concisely.
Ability to work with others as part of a team.
Ability to travel as required.
Satisfactory completion of a background investigation.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of legal experience related to natural resources.
Working knowledge of state and federal laws pertaining to land management and forestry, including CERCLA, NFMA, the Utah Administrative Procedures Act, and other relevant statutes.
Experience with sovereign or submerged lands, the public trust doctrine, contract and permit review and drafting, minerals royalties and leasing, and conservation easements.

Responsibilities

Prepare cases through legal research and evidence gathering.
Provide consultation, recommendations, advice, and support for decisions.
Determine or complete discovery and participate in case strategy and decisions about evidence for court.
Draft correspondence, reports, legal briefs, and other written materials.
Research and respond to incoming questions or complaints, explain policies and procedures, provide information, and facilitate resolutions.
Represent the State or employing agency in lawsuits, grievances, complaints, and other matters.
Prepare litigation documents and legal work product, including concise analyses and recommendations based on case facts, applicable law, and state and federal regulatory standards.
Conduct conferences with defendants or attorneys, negotiate settlements, and appear in court.
Conduct formal or informal hearings, or represent the agency at hearings.
Travel to court locations as required, potentially staying overnight.