Senior Attorney

Center for Biological Diversity•Portland, OR

5d•$89,500 - $131,500•Remote

About The Position

The Senior Attorney advocates for the conservation of endangered species utilizing administrative and legal tools, including the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Administrative Procedures Act and others with a goal of protecting endangered species from the many threats they face. The ideal candidate will have excellent research, writing, and public speaking skills with an ability to think strategically and creatively.

Requirements

Law school graduate admitted to a relevant state bar
At least eight years of experience as an environmental attorney
Experience litigating under the Endangered Species Act
Knowledge of the status, biology of, and threats to endangered species
Background in leading litigation projects and working collaboratively with peers
Excellent writing, communication, research, and oral advocacy skills
Strong work ethic, time management, and organizational skills
Proactive approach to identify opportunities, solve problems, and take initiative to drive projects forward
Proven ability to develop complex cases and manage a full docket
A high degree of scientific literacy
A demonstrated commitment to environmental protection
Ability to work independently and as a part of an effective team
Competence in and commitment to principles of justice, equity and inclusion
Ability to work 40+ hours per week

Responsibilities

Expand the Center’s work to protect endangered species.
Identify and carry out opportunities to protect endangered species from habitat destruction, pollution, exploitation and other threats through litigation and other advocacy.
Identify, develop, and litigate cases and administrative actions to further campaign goals.
Mentor new program attorneys.
Develop detailed knowledge of the status of endangered species across the country.
Build and maintain relationships with partner organizations, coalitions, government officials, scientists.
Utilize litigation and media campaigns to highlight the threats to imperiled wildlife.
Advocate for comprehensive protection of endangered species as a response to litigation and other pressure.
Complete other project work outside of the program as needed to meet changing organizational priorities.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Fully paid medical premiums for staff, and greatly discounted for families.
Fully paid dental and vision premiums for staff and their families.
Generous employer contribution to HSA and HRA’s.
Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) provided for reimbursement of eligible wellness expenses.
Center paid premiums for Short Term and Long Term Disability provided for all staff.
Center paid premiums for Basic Life Insurance for all staff.
Discounted premiums for pet discount program.
403(b) plan with employer match and increasing employer paid contributions.
Generous time off policies, including 13 paid holidays per year and 5 “personal” days awarded each year.
Vacation accrual starts at a rate of 15 days annually, but it may be higher commensurate with experience, and paid sick days accrue at a rate of 10 days per year.
Center Paid Time Off for parental leave, personal leave, caretaker leave and even pet caretaker leave.
After 5 years of service, all employees receive a 12-week paid sabbatical.
Relaxed work atmosphere and dress code.