Research Associate 5 - Energy Law

Louisiana State University

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About The Position

The Legal Research Associate supports the Department’s implementation of Act 458 and other reforms, focusing on rulemaking, statutory interpretation, regulatory modernization, and administrative law research. The Legal Research Associate helps Louisiana stand up a modern regulatory framework—one that is clearer, more predictable, and built for long-term stewardship of energy, water, and land.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and six years of related experience OR a master’s degree and two years of related experience OR a terminal degree (Ph.D.) in a related field.

Nice To Haves

• Juris Doctorate - Recent law graduate, bar-passage pending or recently passed
• strong administrative/legislative research skills
• interest in natural resources, environmental, or energy law
• comfort navigating ambiguity while grounding recommendations in statute

Responsibilities

• Support the drafting of rule text, guidance documents, procedures, and templates supporting Act 458, certification programs, OSR/NRTA operations, and statewide water planning.
• Conduct legal research on administrative law, natural resources regulation, environmental governance, property rights, pore space, and enforcement authority.
• Support the Natural Resources Commission by preparing meeting materials, governance documents, and public participation frameworks.
• Analyze statutory authority for data governance, permitting, financial assurance, mineral management, and restoration activities.
• Assist with drafting memos that help leadership evaluate legal risks, administrative pathways, and options for streamlined implementation.
• Assist with drafting CEAs, contribution agreements, operator financial-wherewithal structures, and template contracts.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees