Environmental Attorney

Senior Environmental & Commercial Real Estate Attorney

Locations: Multiple offices throughout New York State (Hybrid Work Options Available)
Salary: Starting at $160,000+ (commensurate with experience, location, and book of business)
Employment Type: Full-Time | Partner / Senior Counsel Level

Join a Leading Practice at the Intersection of Law, Development, and Environmental Strategy

Our highly regarded and growing legal client is seeking an experienced Environmental & Commercial Real Estate Attorney to join its expanding practice. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-profile development projects while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across the region.

This position is ideal for a seasoned legal professional who brings deep expertise in environmental law, permitting, and regulatory compliance-particularly in connection with large-scale infrastructure and development initiatives.

Position Overview

This role focuses heavily on environmental permitting, regulatory strategy, and project development , with optional involvement in commercial real estate transactions. You will advise clients on navigating complex regulatory frameworks, securing approvals, and managing environmental risk across a wide range of industries.

Core Responsibilities

Environmental Law & Project Development

• Lead permitting and entitlement processes for major development and infrastructure projects
• Advise clients on environmental compliance across federal, state, and local regulations
• Guide projects through environmental review processes (e.g., SEQRA, NEPA) and zoning/land-use approvals
• Interface directly with regulatory agencies and governmental bodies to secure approvals
• Support projects involving:
  • Energy and renewable energy facilities
  • Utility infrastructure and transmission systems
  • Industrial and manufacturing developments
  • Public sector and municipal projects
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and planners to move projects from concept through execution
• Develop strategic permitting approaches that optimize project timelines and regulatory outcomes
• Evaluate environmental risks, site constraints, and mitigation strategies, including brownfield redevelopment
• Represent clients in enforcement actions, administrative proceedings, and compliance matters
• Advise on evolving regulatory areas such as climate legislation, carbon reduction initiatives, and energy transition policies

(Optional) Commercial Real Estate Transactions

• Draft and negotiate real estate agreements, including purchase/sale contracts, leases, and development agreements
• Conduct due diligence reviews (title, environmental reports, surveys, financing structures)
• Support transaction closings and post-closing activities
• Coordinate with lenders, developers, and stakeholders throughout the transaction lifecycle

Job Requirements

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active admission to the New York State Bar (or ability to obtain)
• Minimum 8+ years of experience in environmental law , particularly in permitting and regulatory compliance
• Strong knowledge of environmental statutes and frameworks (e.g., NEPA, SEQRA, CERCLA, RCRA, ESA, Clean Air Act, etc.)
• Experience working on large-scale development, infrastructure, or energy-related projects
• Ability to interpret technical environmental data and reports
• Demonstrated success collaborating with regulatory agencies and multidisciplinary teams
• Strong communication, negotiation, and client management skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex matters in a fast-paced environment
• Commercial real estate transaction experience is a plus but not required

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary starting at $160,000+ , with higher ranges based on experience, geographic location, and business development capabilities
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, retirement, paid time off, etc.)
• Flexible hybrid work environment across multiple office locations

Work Environment

• Hybrid model combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility
• Access to offices across New York State
• Opportunity to work with high-profile clients including corporations, developers, public entities, and institutions
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture with strong support resources

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