Land Use & Environmental Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Land Use & Environmental Associate Attorney to join the West Coast Land Use and Environmental Group of a leading international law firm. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex land use, environmental, and regulatory matters throughout California, including litigation and regulatory counseling related to major development and infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

• Handle litigation matters involving land use and environmental law, including writ-based litigation under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and California housing laws.

• Assist with traditional environmental litigation and regulatory disputes.

• Support clients in obtaining land use entitlements and approvals for development projects.

• Conduct CEQA analysis and compliance work related to environmental review processes.

• Provide regulatory counseling on state and federal environmental laws.

• Draft legal memoranda, pleadings, and client communications.

• Collaborate with partners and cross-practice teams on complex environmental and land use matters.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in environmental, land use, or related litigation.

• Experience with CEQA litigation, California housing laws, or environmental regulatory matters preferred.

• Exposure to land use entitlements and CEQA review processes strongly preferred.

• Candidates with strong litigation experience and transferable skills will also be considered.

• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.

• Strong academic credentials.

• JD from an ABA-accredited law school.

• Admission to the California Bar required.

Work Arrangement

• Hybrid schedule with at least three days per week in the office.

Compensation

The expected salary range for this position in California is $260,000 – $435,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and internal equity. The firm also offers a comprehensive benefits package.