Sr. Staff Attorney

Overview

A Berkeley-based nonprofit organization founded in 1992 is seeking a Senior Staff Attorney to lead the development of high-profile impact litigation and legal strategies. The organization focuses on promoting environmental and social corporate responsibility through shareholder advocacy, coalition building, and innovative legal approaches. It works across issue areas including climate and energy, biodiversity, circular economy, environmental health, and social justice.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative legal strategies that promote environmental and social justice, advance corporate responsibility, defend shareholder rights, and challenge state and federal laws and regulations that impede these interests.
• Collaborate closely with the organization's President and Chief Counsel on strategic litigation development.
• Recruit and coordinate with outside pro bono counsel.
• Develop and carry out legal cases that advance shareholder rights, protect existing laws and regulations in forums such as the SEC, and support democratic principles.
• Assist staff with legal aspects of shareholder advocacy work and core program areas.
• Work collaboratively with program staff, allies, and the legal community to respond to emerging legal, economic, or political challenges.
• Build and maintain relationships with partner organizations.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or foreign equivalent.
• Licensed to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Minimum of 3 years of post-graduate legal experience, including litigation experience (clerkships or fellowships count).
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment while meeting deadlines.
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks and respond quickly to new challenges.
• Strong research, writing, and public speaking skills.
• Flexibility, creativity, and a sense of humor.
• Demonstrated commitment to progressive social and environmental change.

Preferred Qualifications

• Litigation experience with strategic and creative thinking.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: environmental law, corporate and securities law, administrative law.
• Interest or experience in consumer protection, state and federal constitutional law, and federal court issues such as standing and jurisdiction.
• Experience in securities or corporate governance is a strong plus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $85,000 to $120,000, depending on experience.
• Benefits include health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance.
• Employee assistance program.
• 401(k) plan with 4% employer match.
• Parental leave.
• Phone and internet stipend.
• Paid time off: 18 holidays, 2 personal days, 1 volunteer day, 9 sick days.
• Vacation: 10 days in the first year, 15 days in the second year, and 20 days from the third year onward.

Location

This is a remote position with staff based remotely. The organization is headquartered in Berkeley, California.