Assistant Attorney General - Natural Resources

State of Utah Office of the Governor•Salt Lake City, UT

3d•$61 - $89•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 matters involving management of sovereign lands, administration and enforcement of conservation easements, and other issues affecting sovereign lands and forestry programs. The position is based in Salt Lake City and is in-office/on-site. Travel to court locations, including overnight stays, may be required. Employment is conditional on satisfactory completion of a background investigation.

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.
Successful completion of a criminal history/background check as a condition of employment.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of legal experience related to natural resources.
Working knowledge or understanding 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 or permit review and drafting, minerals royalties or leasing, and conservation easements.

Responsibilities

Prepare cases through legal research and evidence gathering.
Provide consultation, recommendations, advice, and assistance with decision-making.
Determine discovery needs and/or complete discovery; participate in case-preparation decision-making and strategy sessions, including determining evidence to use in court.
Write or draft correspondence, reports, legal briefs, and other written materials.
Research and respond to incoming questions or complaints, provide information, explain policies and procedures, and facilitate resolution.
Represent the State or employing agency in lawsuits, grievances, complaints, and other matters.
Prepare litigation documents and legal work product, with clear and concise analyses and recommendations grounded in case facts, applicable law, and state and federal regulatory standards.
Conduct conferences with defendants and/or attorneys, negotiate settlements, and appear in court.
Conduct or represent the agency at formal or informal hearings.
Advise the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands on legal issues related to sovereign lands, conservation easements, forestry programs, and other related matters.
Travel to various court locations and stay overnight when required.