With staff in San Francisco and our newly opened Los Angeles office, Earthjustice’s California regional office fights for the rights of all to a healthy environment, including: protecting communities and public lands from oil development, safeguarding ocean ecosystems, advancing clean energy innovation, clearing the air in Los Angeles and the Central Valley, opposing hazardous fossil fuel transport, and fighting dangerous pesticide use.

The Associate Program is designed to help early career attorneys develop into thoughtful, professional, and effective advocates skilled in the various aspects of public-interest litigation.  The term for the associate position is two to three years although it may be extended, consistent with program staffing needs, in the case of exceptionally qualified applicants with demonstrated progress and ability.  Many associates have gone on to other positions within Earthjustice or with other conservation organizations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The level of duties and responsibilities for an Associate Attorney will vary depending on experience. However, among other responsibilities, the Associate will:

• Conduct legal and factual research and prepare memoranda on issues relating to ongoing or potential litigation projects.
• Review and analyze a paper record and interviewing fact witnesses and scientific experts.
• Draft motions, briefs and other pleadings.
• Prepare comments on proposed agency actions, permits, and environmental review documents.
• Investigate facts and assist with case development.
• Assist in or take the lead in preparing a legal brief and might appear in court under the supervision of a more senior attorney.
• Interact with clients on a regular basis.
• Communicate with the news media.
• Demonstrates an awareness and sensitivity to the needs and concerns of individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds and orientations.

Contributes to recruiting, hiring, developing and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce.

• Supervisory Responsibilities: Hire and supervise law students who work at Earthjustice as interns or clerks.

The associate program is designed to help early career attorneys develop into thoughtful, professional, and effective advocates skilled in the various aspects of public-interest litigation.  The term for the associate position is two to three years although it may be extended, consistent with program staffing needs, in the case of exceptionally qualified applicants with demonstrated progress and ability.  Many associates have gone on to other positions within Earthjustice or with other conservation organizations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Law school graduate who is admitted or willing to apply for admission, to the state Bar where they are located.
• Preferably, one to four years of litigation or other relevant experience post law school.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Strong self-motivation.
• An ability and willingness to work closely with others.
• A commitment to public interest work and the role of Earthjustice and its mission.
• Demonstrates an awareness and sensitivity to the needs and concerns of individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds and orientations.
• Contributes to the creation of a diverse, equitable and inclusive work culture that encourages and celebrates differences.

We offer a mission- and employee-focused work environment and a competitive compensation package, including excellent benefits.  Earthjustice is an equal opportunity employer and highly values diversity.

TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a:

• Resume.
• Cover letter.
• Writing sample, preferably a legal brief or memorandum that primarily reflects your work.
• Law school transcript.
• List of three professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled

Please, no phone calls, hard copies, or drop-ins. If you’re having technical difficulties submitting your application, please reach out to jobs@earthjustice.org.