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Climate Change Lawyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Save the Sound

Staff Attorney

New Haven, CT · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

As an organization, we build resilient communities while fighting climate change, save endangered ... The staff attorney's work would center around our legal advocacy, with a focus on litigation.

Save the Sound

Staff Attorney

New Haven, CT

$70K - $95K/yr

As an organization, we build resilient communities while fighting climate change, save endangered ... The staff attorney's work would center around our legal advocacy, with a focus on litigation.

Nature

$150 - $200/hr

The Senior Attorney provides legal advice and direction on complex matters for assigned global programs and strategies including, but not limited to, Impact Finance and Markets, Tackle Climate Change ...

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Climate Change Lawyer information

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$47K

$100.6K

$138K

How much do climate change lawyer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for climate change lawyer in the United States is $100,626.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a climate change lawyer?

Climate change lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in laws and policies related to climate change and environmental protection. They advise governments, organizations, and businesses on compliance with environmental regulations, represent clients in litigation involving climate-related issues, and help develop strategies for sustainability and greenhouse gas reduction. Their work often includes interpreting complex international agreements, national laws, and local policies to ensure clients meet their legal obligations and advocate for stronger climate action.

What are the typical challenges a climate change lawyer faces when working on environmental policy cases?

Climate Change Lawyers often encounter the challenge of navigating complex and evolving environmental regulations at local, national, and international levels. They must stay current with legislative updates and court rulings while balancing the interests of various stakeholders, including government agencies, corporations, and advocacy groups. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as the role frequently involves translating technical scientific findings into compelling legal arguments. Additionally, Climate Change Lawyers may work in interdisciplinary teams, collaborating closely with scientists, policymakers, and industry experts to build strong cases and promote sustainable practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a climate change lawyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Climate Change Lawyer, you need a law degree, bar admission, and specialized knowledge of environmental, regulatory, and international climate change law. Familiarity with legal research databases, environmental impact assessment tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Exceptional negotiation, analytical thinking, and public advocacy skills help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for effectively representing clients, shaping policy, and ensuring legal compliance in the complex and evolving field of climate change law.

What is the difference between Climate Change Lawyer vs Environmental Lawyer?

AspectClimate Change LawyerEnvironmental Lawyer
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission, specialization in climate lawJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission, specialization in environmental law
Work EnvironmentLegal firms, NGOs, government agencies focusing on climate policiesLegal firms, NGOs, government agencies addressing broader environmental issues
Industry UsageFocused on climate policies, international climate agreements, carbon regulationsBroader environmental regulations, pollution control, conservation laws

While both roles require legal credentials and focus on environmental issues, Climate Change Lawyers specialize in climate policies and international agreements, whereas Environmental Lawyers handle a wider range of environmental regulations and conservation efforts.

How much does a climate change lawyer make?

A climate change lawyer's salary varies based on experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $60,000 to over $150,000 annually. Senior attorneys or those working in large firms or organizations may earn higher salaries, and specialized knowledge in environmental law can influence compensation.

What do climate change lawyers do?

Climate change lawyers advise clients on laws and policies related to environmental protection and climate action. They may work on litigation, policy development, or regulatory compliance to address issues like emissions reduction and renewable energy. Strong research, legal analysis, and understanding of environmental law are essential skills in this role.
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What cities are hiring for Climate Change Lawyer jobs?

Cities with the most Climate Change Lawyer job openings:

What job categories do people searching Climate Change Lawyer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Climate Change Lawyer jobs are:

Climate Change Lawyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climate Change Lawyer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,626 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Commission on Climate Change and Resiliency (CCCR)

Mayor's Office of Talent and Appointments

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

TOTAL PUBLIC MEMBERS: 8
APPOINTMENT TYPE: Appointed by the Mayor
TERM LENGTH (YEARS): 3
RESIDENCY: Strong preference for District residency, with representation from all 8 wards
PAID BOARD: No, all roles are volunteer
Current District of Columbia residents will receive priority and advanced preference for screening and interviews.
DESCRIPTION
There is established a Commission on Climate Change and Resiliency to:
  1. Assess the potential effects of climate change on the District;
  2. Assess the District's ability to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change;
  3. Assess the District's ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from severe, adverse weather events;
  4. Identify vulnerabilities related to climate change effects and preparedness and prepare recommendations to the Council and the Mayor to mitigate those vulnerabilities; and
  5. Provide comments and recommendations to all District agencies on climate change adaptation and vulnerability mitigation plans.

The Commission shall consult with and seek the advice of the following agencies and entities as appropriate:
  1. The Department of Energy and Environment;
  2. The Office of Planning;
  3. The Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency;
  4. The District Department of Transportation;
  5. The Department of Health;
  6. The Department of General Services;
  7. The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority;
  8. The Office of People's Counsel;
  9. The Public Service Commission;
  10. The Mayor's Office of Budget and Finance;
  11. The Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development;
  12. The Office of the City Administrator;
  13. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority; and
  14. Local electric, gas, and telecommunications utilities.

The Commission shall invite federal partners, including the General Services Administration, the Architect of the Capitol, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the National Capital Planning Commission, and the National Parks Service to participate in its discussions and planning.
COMMISSION MEMBERSHIP
The Commission shall have 16 voting members, who shall be appointed as follows:
  1. Eight voting members appointed by the Mayor, including a chairperson.
  2. Eight voting members appointed by the Chairman of the Council.

QUALIFICATIONS
The voting members shall have demonstrable expertise in at least one of the following areas:
  • Emergency preparedness;
  • Energy;
  • Environmental justice;
  • Environmental science;
  • Insurance;
  • Natural resources;
  • Public health; and
  • Transportation.

TIME COMMITMENT
The Commission shall meet at least once per quarter.
If you are interested in an appointment to this board, please complete the appointment application and attach the required documentation. All applicants will receive an email confirming their application was received. Applications will be screened as they are received. Candidates deemed most suited based on the application will be contacted to schedule further discussion.

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