Environmental Attorney
About The Position
Our highly regarded and growing legal client is seeking an experienced Environmental & Commercial Real Estate Attorney to join its expanding practice. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-profile development projects while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across the region. This position is ideal for a seasoned legal professional who brings deep expertise in environmental law, permitting, and regulatory compliance—particularly in connection with large-scale infrastructure and development initiatives. This role focuses heavily on environmental permitting, regulatory strategy, and project development, with optional involvement in commercial real estate transactions. You will advise clients on navigating complex regulatory frameworks, securing approvals, and managing environmental risk across a wide range of industries.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
- Active admission to the New York State Bar (or ability to obtain)
- Minimum 8+ years of experience in environmental law, particularly in permitting and regulatory compliance
- Strong knowledge of environmental statutes and frameworks (e.g., NEPA, SEQRA, CERCLA, RCRA, ESA, Clean Air Act, etc.)
- Experience working on large-scale development, infrastructure, or energy-related projects
- Ability to interpret technical environmental data and reports
- Demonstrated success collaborating with regulatory agencies and multidisciplinary teams
- Strong communication, negotiation, and client management skills
- Ability to manage multiple complex matters in a fast-paced environment
Nice To Haves
- Commercial real estate transaction experience is a plus but not required
Responsibilities
- Lead permitting and entitlement processes for major development and infrastructure projects
- Advise clients on environmental compliance across federal, state, and local regulations
- Guide projects through environmental review processes (e.g., SEQRA, NEPA) and zoning/land-use approvals
- Interface directly with regulatory agencies and governmental bodies to secure approvals
- Support projects involving: Energy and renewable energy facilities, Utility infrastructure and transmission systems, Industrial and manufacturing developments, Public sector and municipal projects
- Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and planners to move projects from concept through execution
- Develop strategic permitting approaches that optimize project timelines and regulatory outcomes
- Evaluate environmental risks, site constraints, and mitigation strategies, including brownfield redevelopment
- Represent clients in enforcement actions, administrative proceedings, and compliance matters
- Advise on evolving regulatory areas such as climate legislation, carbon reduction initiatives, and energy transition policies
- Draft and negotiate real estate agreements, including purchase/sale contracts, leases, and development agreements
- Conduct due diligence reviews (title, environmental reports, surveys, financing structures)
- Support transaction closings and post-closing activities
- Coordinate with lenders, developers, and stakeholders throughout the transaction lifecycle
Benefits
- Competitive base salary starting at $160,000+
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Comprehensive benefits package (health, retirement, paid time off, etc.)
- Flexible hybrid work environment across multiple office locations
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
