Senior Counsel - Litigation and EHS

Duke Energy•Cincinnati, OH

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives. Build an exciting, rewarding career with us – help us make a difference for millions of people every day. Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits. This mid-level associate attorney position is for: (1) a litigator who will be part of the Litigation group and litigate matters in court as well as manage litigation with outside counsel and (2) an environmental attorney who will support the Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) group. This attorney will interface with key stakeholders and work under the direction of senior members of the Litigation and EHS teams. The position will be based in Cincinnati, Ohio. The attorney will be responsible for working with the other attorneys and staff in the Office of General Counsel in providing litigation-related support and counsel to the business operations of Duke Energy Corporation and its subsidiaries (collectively, the Company). In addition, the attorney will be responsible for providing legal guidance on EHS issues across the Duke Energy enterprise. Although prior experience supporting administrative law matters is desired, it is not required. The role requires the candidate to (i) possess proficient oral and written communication skills and develop relationships with clients to ensure client communication and responsiveness, (ii) demonstrate responsiveness and teamwork within the Office of General Counsel, and (iii) develop knowledge of the Company and industry. This position is hybrid, which includes a mix of on-site and remote work. Periodic travel within the U.S. will be required.

Requirements

Doctor of Jurisprudence degree (JD) from an accredited law school
In addition to JD, minimum of three (3) years of related experience
Licensed to practice law in Ohio and Kentucky, or licensed in Ohio with the ability to seek comity with Kentucky

Nice To Haves

Combination of five (5) or more years of civil litigation, including courtroom experience, and environmental/administrative law experience
Experience managing condemnation or eminent domain cases
First or second chair trial experience and comfortable appearing in court unsupervised where necessary
Ability to handle routine personal injury and property damage disputes and incidences without outside counsel support
Experience with (i) Clean Air Act issues, (ii) Clean Water Act issues, (iii) solid and hazardous waste issues, and (iv) natural resources issues, including the National Environmental Policy Act
Experience with federal and state environmental permitting
Technical proficiency in multiple areas of the law
Experience analyzing multiple complex matters simultaneously, reducing them to manageable products and communications, and developing recommendations that meet the Company’s legal and business needs
Proven effective research and writing skills
Strong oral and written communication skills
Exceptional judgment, decision making, and problem-solving abilities
Organizational agility, process management, planning, and presentation and team skills
Ability to gain the confidence and respect of management and clients
Ability to take direction and act accordingly with conviction in a timely and high- quality manner
Ability to work with a variety of personalities and desire to be part of a team
Ability to function effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced and dynamic environment and to prioritize conflicting demands from multiple business clients
Willingness to learn and continuously develop skills and proficiencies in the practice of law
Technologically proficient and independent
Regulated utility industry experience preferred, but not mandatory

Responsibilities

Manage litigation-related issues (real estate, employment, commercial litigation) affecting the Company in the Midwest, including representing the Company in court, handling motions practice and trials, and conducting discovery.
Manage and resolve legal matters and concerns involving personal injury and property damage issues arising out of the day-to-day functions of the Company with limited supervision and guidance.
Employee will work on non-routine matters requiring a broad and thorough understanding of the Company and its business environment.
Provide legal advice to key business units and project teams of the Company, in conjunction with a senior member of the Litigation team.
Provide counsel to the Company on environmental matters to ensure compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.
Interpret state and federal laws and regulations on air, water, waste, and natural resources matters, as well as other environmental issues, to ensure timely compliance.
Advise on Occupational Safety and Health Administration issues, including handling inspections, attending informal conferences, and defending citations.
Research and draft legal documents, such as legal memoranda, contracts, corporate governance documents, or other legal documents and assist with negotiations.
Consult with Associate General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel on legal issues with significant value or which may have economic, political, or media implications for the Company.
Monitor legal developments, legislation, and pending legislation promulgated by the federal government and the states in which the Company does business to assess and advise on implementation of and compliance with new laws and regulations.
Stay abreast of interpretations adversely affecting current methods of operations.
Ensure accurate and timely reporting of litigation and EHS developments that may impact the Company.
Comply with processes to protect the Company from unnecessary risks and liabilities, including all reporting requirements.
Remain current on legal trends, laws and regulations and proactively communicate information to other attorneys in the Office of General Counsel.
Provide or assist with providing legal training to business units within the Company.
Frequently meet with and counsel individuals within the Company.
When appropriate, work with and manage outside counsel to maximize efficiency and appropriately frame litigation strategies.
Promote a positive corporate image through involvement in Company and civic affairs.
Lead and/or serve on committees, special projects, or other assignments as directed to further departmental goals.
Perform other duties as assigned.