Associate Attorney, International

Overview Earthjustice seeks an associate attorney to join our International Program. The Associate Attorney will support and collaborate with our team of lawyers and scientists working to safeguard the human right to a healthy environment and speed the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy in key countries around the world. Earthjustice is the nation’s leading environmental law organization, partnering with clients to protect biodiversity and wild places, avert climate disaster by transitioning to clean energy, and safeguard the right to a healthy environment. Since 1991, our International Program has partnered with organizations around the world to establish, strengthen, and enforce environmental and human health protections in foreign jurisdictions. The program focuses on reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting clean energy in Africa, Australia, Indonesia, Latin America, and beyond. The Associate Attorney position is a three-year role with the potential for extension. The program is designed to develop early-career attorneys into thoughtful and effective public interest advocates. The International Program primarily supports partner organizations in public interest litigation and advocacy outside the United States; associates do not represent clients directly in litigation in foreign jurisdictions but gain exposure to diverse advocacy strategies and styles. This is a hybrid position based preferably in our San Francisco office and requires regular in-person attendance. Responsibilities Conduct legal, policy, and factual research, often involving international and foreign law. Prepare memoranda in support of partner organization work in foreign jurisdictions. Review and analyze administrative records, scientific reports, policy research, and technical documents related to fossil fuel and clean energy infrastructure. Draft motions, briefs, administrative comments, and other legal and factual documents in support of litigation or administrative proceedings. Collaborate with partner organizations, lawyers, and experts from diverse cultural, linguistic, and legal backgrounds. Participate in communications about our work, such as drafting blog posts or press releases. Hire and supervise law students who work at Earthjustice as interns or clerks. Qualifications Law school graduate admitted to, or qualified and willing to apply for admission to, the Bar in the state where they will be located. 0–5 years of experience post law school. Experience or interest in fossil fuel extraction and infrastructure, energy law and policy, and climate change. Excellent research, analytical, writing, and communication skills. Strong work ethic, initiative, and sound yet creative judgment. A commitment to the right of all to a healthy environment. Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment. Awareness of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Desire to contribute to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work culture. Ability to thrive in a hybrid office setting and willingness to travel to San Francisco periodically if not located there. Knowledge of environmental and/or international law; experience in a country other than the United States or exposure to foreign or international legal systems; professional fluency in a language other than English is a plus. Compensation and Benefits We offer a mission- and employee-focused work environment with a competitive compensation package and excellent benefits. Earthjustice is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Earthjustice is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. Compensation is based on experience and location. Most of the International Program team is based in San Francisco, and there is a strong preference for the associate attorney to be in San Francisco. Exceptions will be considered for exceptional candidates who wish to work from another Earthjustice office location. Application Details Salary range for San Francisco: $110,500–$131,900. To apply, submit the following: Resume One- or two-page cover letter addressing: 1) relevant experience; 2) why you are drawn to Earthjustice’s International Program; and 3) particular legal, environmental, or justice issues that inspire you Writing sample (preferably a legal brief or memorandum not edited by someone else) Law school transcript We are looking to hire a candidate who can start no later than September 2026. Applications must be received by May 26, 2026. Earthjustice brings associate attorneys on board on a quarterly schedule (January, April, June, September). For technical difficulties submitting your application, contact [email protected] No phone calls, drop-ins, or hard copies. Earthjustice is committed to justice, partnership, inclusion, and excellence. We value diverse perspectives and backgrounds and are an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal opportunity in employment regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. For positions in San Francisco, we comply with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. For positions in Los Angeles, we comply with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. #J-18808-Ljbffr Earthjustice