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Environmental Counsel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$102K - $139K/yr

Helping Amgen shape external environment to improve patient access to its vital medicines ... The Counsel we seek is highly motivated and has these qualifications.**Basic Qualifications:*** J.D ...

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Environmental Counsel information

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$33.5K

$139.4K

$234.5K

How much do environmental counsel jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental counsel in the United States is $139,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $197,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an environmental counsel?

Environmental Counsel are legal professionals who specialize in environmental law, advising organizations or individuals on regulations and compliance related to environmental protection. They help clients navigate complex local, state, and federal environmental laws, represent them in legal proceedings, and work to ensure their activities do not harm the environment or violate environmental statutes. Environmental Counsel may also assist with permitting, environmental impact assessments, and negotiations with regulatory agencies. Their role is crucial in supporting sustainable business practices and helping clients avoid costly legal issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental counsel?

To thrive as an Environmental Counsel, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong expertise in environmental law, regulatory compliance, and litigation. Familiarity with legal research databases, environmental permitting systems, and relevant federal and state regulations such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act is essential. Outstanding analytical thinking, negotiation, and written and verbal communication skills set top candidates apart. These skills ensure effective advocacy, risk management, and the ability to guide organizations through complex environmental legal requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by environmental counsel when balancing business objectives with environmental regulations?

Environmental Counsel often navigate the complex intersection of business goals and regulatory compliance. A primary challenge is ensuring that organizational activities align with evolving environmental laws while supporting business growth and operational efficiency. This often requires proactive communication with internal stakeholders, staying updated on legislative changes, and developing creative solutions that meet both legal and business requirements. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and external agencies is essential to anticipate risks and implement sustainable practices.

What is the difference between Environmental Counsel vs Environmental Lawyer?

AspectEnvironmental CounselEnvironmental Lawyer
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission, specialized environmental law certificationsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission, environmental law certifications
Work EnvironmentIn-house legal team within corporations or organizationsPrivate practice or government agencies, handling cases and legal advice
Employer & IndustryCorporations, industry groups, or large organizationsLaw firms, government agencies, or consulting firms
Primary FocusProviding legal advice on environmental compliance and policies within a companyRepresenting clients in environmental litigation or legal matters

Environmental Counsel typically works in-house within organizations, focusing on compliance and policy advice, while Environmental Lawyers often work in law firms or government roles, handling litigation and legal cases. Both roles require similar credentials and environmental law expertise, but their work environments and primary responsibilities differ.

More about Environmental Counsel jobs

What cities are hiring for Environmental Counsel jobs?

Cities with the most Environmental Counsel job openings:

What states have the most Environmental Counsel jobs?

States with the most job openings for Environmental Counsel jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Environmental Counsel jobs?

For Environmental Counsel jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Environmental Counsel job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,438 per year, or $67 per hour.

Environmental Associate Attorney

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Direct Counsel
Recruiting and Staffing Servicesย โ€ขย 1 - 10 employees

$260K - $365K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Environmental Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking an Environmental Associate Attorney to join the Energy & Infrastructure practice of a prestigious Am Law firm in one of the following offices: Austin, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Houston, Irvine (Orange County), Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Portland, Sacramento, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Seattle, Silicon Valley (Menlo Park), or Washington, D.C.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an attorney with 3-5 years of environmental law experience to join a nationally recognized Energy & Infrastructure practice. The role focuses on environmental counseling, permitting, project development, and transactional support for sophisticated clients across the energy, infrastructure, and project finance sectors.

Responsibilities
  • Advise clients on federal and state environmental laws and regulations, including CERCLA, NEPA, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, RCRA, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act.

  • Provide environmental support for mergers and acquisitions, project finance transactions, and project development matters.

  • Assist clients with environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, and due diligence.

  • Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, agreements, and other legal documents.

  • Coordinate with environmental consultants and technical advisors on complex matters.

  • Represent clients before federal and state regulatory agencies.

  • Manage multiple client matters while providing practical, business-focused legal advice.

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary legal teams on sophisticated energy and infrastructure projects.

Qualifications
  • J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.

  • Active membership in a U.S. state bar and eligibility to practice in the applicable office jurisdiction.

  • 3-5 years of environmental law experience at a major law firm or government agency.

  • Experience advising on environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, and environmental aspects of mergers and acquisitions or project finance transactions.

  • Strong knowledge of major federal environmental statutes and regulatory frameworks.

  • Excellent legal research, drafting, analytical, and communication skills.

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

  • Commitment to exceptional client service and collaborative teamwork.

  • Strong academic credentials and a proactive, entrepreneurial approach to practice.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $260,000-$365,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

  • Comprehensive benefits package, including:

    • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

    • Mental health and wellness programs

    • Child, family, elder, and pet care benefits

    • Short- and long-term disability coverage

    • Industry-leading parental leave

    • Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options

    • 401(k) retirement plan

    • Flexible Time Off (FTO) and paid holidays

    • Annual discretionary performance bonus eligibility