Two-Year Project Attorney, Healthy States Project

Overview

A two-year Project Attorney position is available to join a Healthy States project focused on advancing state and local legal strategies to increase protections from toxic exposure and hold polluters accountable. Candidates must have at least seven years of litigation or a combination of litigation and legal policy experience. The role involves collaboration with a Healthy Communities team and regional offices to develop novel litigation, legal advocacy, and regulatory strategies in select jurisdictions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research across various fields, including environmental law.
• Identify and develop innovative legal advocacy approaches.
• Support litigation efforts in state courts.
• Perform administrative analysis and advocate before state and local governments.
• Develop and execute toxics-focused advocacy campaigns in collaboration with attorneys, lobbyists, and communications staff.
• Collaborate with co-counsel from other organizations and oversee outside experts.
• Contribute to communications efforts by writing reports and blogs.
• Assist in informing fundraising efforts.
• Participate in planning and strategy development.
• Promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and engage with colleagues, clients, and partners accordingly.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Active bar membership in the relevant working location.
• Minimum of 7 years of litigation experience or a combination of litigation and legal policy work.
• Ability and willingness to learn new areas of law.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Strong initiative, sound judgment, collegial work style, and work ethic.
• Willingness to travel for case work and internal meetings.
• Preference for candidates with experience using legal frameworks to advance social and/or environmental justice.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and working location.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Casual and congenial work environment.
• Qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

Salary Ranges:

• New York: $175,500 - $217,100 annually
• Washington, DC & Chicago, IL: $166,700 - $206,200 annually
• Remote (U.S.): $149,200 - $217,100 annually

This is a full-time role (37.5 hours/week). The successful candidate may work remotely within the U.S. or on a hybrid schedule from offices located in Chicago, New York City, or Washington, DC. Travel as needed is required. The anticipated start date is Summer 2026, with a 24-month commitment.

Location

Candidates may work remotely from anywhere in the U.S. or from offices in Chicago, New York City, or Washington, DC.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit the following materials:

• Resume
• Cover letter addressing:
  • Reasons for interest in the role
  • Preferred work location(s) and in-office work preferences or flexibility
  • Strengths, expertise, and interest in legal advocacy to increase protections from toxic exposures
  • Experience developing novel legal strategies
• Two writing samples demonstrating legal or policy analysis, including at least one legal brief or motion. Each sample should be no more than 12 pages and primarily authored by the applicant, with a cover note describing the level of editing.

Applications are preferred by July 5, 2026, but will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other factor unrelated to the position. It strives to maintain an inclusive environment where all staff are valued and respected.