Sr. Counsel

New York State Energy Research•City of Albany, NY

7h•$97,874 - $168,152

About The Position

As a leader in advancing New York’s energy transition, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is a credible, objective and trusted partner in energy planning and in deploying new innovative technologies to build an affordable, abundant, reliable, and clean energy system. NYSERDA works with stakeholders statewide, including residents, business owners, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utilities, investors, entrepreneurs, and more, to develop, invest, and foster conditions that: Attract the private sector capital investment needed to expand New York’s clean energy economy. Advance solutions for using clean energy at a large-scale in New York. Enable New York’s communities and residents to benefit equitably in the clean energy transition. JOB OVERVIEW NYSERDA is seeking a motivated, dynamic, and resourceful attorney in its Office of the General Counsel to provide legal counsel and guidance to NYSERDA and its diverse program areas, including building decarbonization, large-scale renewable development, and clean transportation serving residents, businesses, municipalities, and community-based organizations. In this role, the attorney will be exposed to a wide range of legal issues, State policy initiatives, and regulatory processes in a high-stakes environment. NYSERDA’s program portfolio and responsibilities are dynamic and the ideal candidate should be growth-minded, have a strong desire to learn and expand their skillset, and take on new challenges. The candidate should have experience in procurement, project development, financing and/or regulatory matters, and be committed to NYSERDA’s mission and helping the organization continually improve and execute its work. The attorney should be a self-starter who acts independently, directs one’s own work and can handle diverse tasks quickly and accurately within a high-pressure environment.

Requirements

Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school and admission to the bar of New York State
Experience advising on regulatory, financial, and/or legal affairs in areas including: State and federal regulatory proceedings, Business organization and corporate law, Government procurements and contracting
Ability to communicate articulately and persuasively, in both verbal and written form
Resourcefulness and pragmatism, focused on finding effective solutions to complex issues
Discretionary skills needed to navigate sensitive projects and negotiations among NYSERDA, counterparties, and inter-agency teams
Deep appreciation for the inter-relationship of the needs and perspectives of internal and external stakeholders in supporting NYSERDA’s mission
Dedicated work ethic and resolute integrity
Ability to handle stressful situations with measured calmness and decisiveness

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated interest and expertise in energy and environmental law
Familiarity with the NYS Freedom of Information Law (FOIL)

Responsibilities

Provide counsel to NYSERDA programs with respect to requests for proposals, other solicitations, contract negotiation, and program implementation
Draft, edit, and monitor State and federal regulatory filings
Work with the Office of the Attorney General and outside counsel, as appropriate, with respect to litigation by or against the Authority or impacting NYSERDA
Manage State and federal investigations, audits, and other external inquiries
Research and analyze complex State and federal legal and regulatory matters impacting the Authority and draft legal memoranda with recommendations
Work closely with and manage outside counsel, including review of complex substantive legal issues
Drive projects forward by gathering and effectively organizing required information, communicating effectively and professionally with internal and external stakeholders, developing and monitoring plans, and keeping track of responsibilities and commitments of the team members
Appropriately handle confidential and sensitive matters
Perform all job responsibilities with respect, fairness, consistency, and inclusion.
Additional responsibilities, assigned