Associate Attorney - Environmental Litigation

Associate Attorney - Environmental LitigationStarting Salary - $185,000 - $205,0001700 Hour Billable Min.I'm partnered with a highly regarded law firm seeking an Environmental Litigation Associate to join its Seattle-based practice. This is an excellent opportunity for a litigation attorney who wants meaningful responsibility, direct client exposure, and the chance to work on some of the most significant environmental and natural resources matters in the country.The OpportunityYou'll join a collaborative team that handles complex environmental litigation in federal and state courts, working closely with experienced attorneys on high-profile matters involving environmental, natural resources, land use, and energy issues. This role offers substantial hands-on responsibility, opportunities to mentor junior attorneys, and a pathway to continued professional growth within a collegial and supportive culture.What You'll DoRepresent clients in complex environmental litigation matters in federal and state courts.Draft high-quality legal memoranda, pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, and client recommendations.Conduct and defend depositions.Manage and resolve discovery disputes.Participate in trial preparation and courtroom proceedings, including witness examinations, evidentiary presentations, and oral advocacy.Collaborate with attorneys across environmental, energy, land use, real estate, and natural resources matters.Support clients on select regulatory and advisory matters in addition to litigation work.Mentor and support junior attorneys through training, delegation, and professional development.Required QualificationsJ.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.Active admission, or eligibility for admission, in Washington State.At least 4 years of litigation experience.Experience handling significant litigation matters in federal and/or state courts.Strong legal writing and research skills, including drafting briefs, memoranda, pleadings, and other substantive legal work product.Experience taking and defending depositions.Experience managing discovery and discovery-related disputes.Background working with environmental statutes and related regulations, including areas such as:National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)Clean Water Act (CWA)Clean Air Act (CAA)Endangered Species Act (ESA)CERCLA/SuperfundComparable state and federal environmental lawsPreferred QualificationsStrong academic credentials.Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.Ability to manage matters independently and proactively move work forward.Strong analytical skills and the ability to quickly master new legal and regulatory issues.Collaborative mindset and commitment to team success.Why Consider This Opportunity?Meaningful responsibility and direct client interaction.Exposure to sophisticated environmental and natural resources litigation.Collaborative, team-oriented culture with a strong emphasis on mentorship and professional development.Flexible hybrid work environment with an expectation of approximately three days per week in the office.Manageable annual billable target of 1,700 hours, including qualifying pro bono and business development activities.Strong bonus potential for attorneys who exceed annual targets.Commitment to work-life balance and long-term career development.BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) profit-sharing planPaid time off, paid holidays and parental leaveLife and disability insuranceEmployee assistance resourcesProfessional development opportunities.