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Environmental Litigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role is ideal for a seasoned practitioner who values environmental litigation energy law client relationships and long-term professional stability within a supportive firm environment.

Company Description We are seeking an experienced Environmental Law Attorney to advise clients on compliance, litigation, and regulatory matters involving federal, state, and local environmental laws.

Company Description We are seeking an experienced Environmental Law Attorney to advise clients on compliance, litigation, and regulatory matters involving federal, state, and local environmental laws.

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Environmental Litigation information

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$30.5K

$68.2K

$99.5K

How much do environmental litigation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental litigation in the United States is $68,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Environmental Litigation vs Environmental Compliance Specialist?

AspectEnvironmental LitigationEnvironmental Compliance Specialist
Required CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, environmental law certificationsEnvironmental science or engineering degree, compliance certifications
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, courts, law firms, corporate legal departmentsCorporate offices, regulatory agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, government agenciesManufacturing, energy, environmental consulting

Environmental Litigation involves legal cases related to environmental laws, requiring legal expertise and courtroom experience. In contrast, Environmental Compliance Specialists focus on ensuring organizations adhere to environmental regulations through audits and policy implementation. While both roles aim to protect the environment, their work environments, credentials, and daily tasks differ significantly.

What is environmental litigation?

Environmental litigation refers to the legal process of resolving disputes related to environmental laws and regulations. This may involve lawsuits against individuals, companies, or government agencies accused of causing environmental harm, such as pollution or habitat destruction. Environmental litigators represent clients in court, negotiate settlements, and work to ensure compliance with environmental standards. The field covers a broad range of issues, including air and water quality, hazardous waste, land use, and climate change. Successful environmental litigation can help protect natural resources and public health.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in environmental litigation?

Professionals in environmental litigation often encounter complex, evolving regulations and must stay current with both local and federal environmental laws. They regularly work with technical experts, such as scientists and engineers, to build strong cases, which requires the ability to translate complex scientific data into persuasive legal arguments. Additionally, environmental litigation cases can be lengthy and involve multiple stakeholders, making strong project management and communication skills essential. The role also often involves balancing the interests of clients with public policy considerations and environmental protection goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Environmental Litigation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Environmental Litigation, you need a law degree, strong legal research and writing skills, and expertise in environmental regulations and statutes. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management systems, and certifications such as bar admission are typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, negotiation abilities, and clear communication help attorneys effectively advocate for clients and navigate complex legal and scientific issues. These competencies are crucial for building persuasive cases, achieving favorable outcomes, and ensuring compliance with environmental laws.
More about Environmental Litigation jobs
What cities are hiring for Environmental Litigation jobs? Cities with the most Environmental Litigation job openings:
What states have the most Environmental Litigation jobs? States with the most job openings for Environmental Litigation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Litigation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Litigation jobs are:
Infographic showing various Environmental Litigation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 35% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 72% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,191 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Environmental Litigation & Mass Tort Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Washington, DC

$260K - $420K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking an Environmental Litigation Associate to join a premier Environmental Litigation and Mass Tort practice in Washington, D.C. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney looking to work on sophisticated environmental enforcement actions, regulatory disputes, and high-profile litigation matters involving complex federal environmental laws and regulations.

The ideal candidate will have experience handling environmental litigation matters, a strong understanding of environmental and administrative law, and the ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and government enforcement actions.

Responsibilities
  • Represent clients in environmental litigation and regulatory enforcement matters
  • Advise clients regarding:
    • Federal environmental compliance
    • Government investigations
    • Regulatory enforcement actions
    • Administrative law issues
    • Environmental risk management
  • Analyze complex federal environmental statutes, regulations, and enforcement frameworks
  • Draft:
    • Motions
    • Briefs
    • Legal memoranda
    • Regulatory submissions
    • Enforcement responses
  • Conduct legal research and factual investigations
  • Assist clients in responding to agency inquiries and enforcement proceedings
  • Work closely with technical experts, consultants, and client stakeholders
  • Manage litigation and regulatory projects with increasing independence and client responsibility
  • Participate in all phases of litigation, administrative proceedings, and settlement negotiations
Qualifications
  • J.D. from an accredited law school
  • Law school class years 2019–2023
  • Experience with environmental litigation matters, preferably at the federal level
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Environmental law
    • Administrative law
    • Federal regulatory frameworks
    • Government enforcement processes
  • Ability to analyze complex and technical regulatory schemes
  • Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills
  • Strong project management and organizational abilities
  • Ability to work independently and manage matters with minimal supervision
  • Outstanding academic credentials
Preferred Experience
  • Government-side enforcement experience
  • Experience with federal environmental agencies
  • Experience working with the U.S. Department of Justice
  • Civil environmental litigation
  • Regulatory investigations and enforcement matters
Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary range: $260,000 – $420,000
  • Compensation based on experience, qualifications, and other operational considerations
  • Discretionary performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Retirement benefits
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Parental leave
  • Basic life insurance
Why This Opportunity
  • Join a highly regarded Environmental Litigation and Mass Tort practice
  • Work on sophisticated environmental enforcement and regulatory matters
  • Gain meaningful client contact and responsibility early in your career
  • Collaborate with leading environmental litigators and regulatory practitioners
  • Exposure to complex, high-profile environmental disputes and investigations
  • Strong mentorship, professional development, and long-term career growth opportunities

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.