Environmental Justice Staff Attorney

Duties And Responsibilities

• Maintains an individual caseload, engaging in client-directed litigation in state and federal court, including appellate work, before administrative agencies and potentially international tribunals.
• Involves and engages with policy development, including the state legislative session and federal legislation/rulemaking that supports and furthers NMELC’s mission.
• Keeps the Executive Director, legal team, staff, and larger community informed of relevant legal and policy developments.
• Prepares and presents reports to staff, Board of Directors, community, and the public.
• Represents NMELC at national, state, and local meetings, conferences, in the media, in the community, as part of coalitions, and at relevant events.
• Supports larger public education efforts, e.g., through community engagement and outreach.
• Fosters and cultivates strong relationships with legal advocates, clients, and community members in other environmental justice/environmental and social justice organizations and movements.
• Participates in organizational events and resource development as needed and directed by the Executive Director.

Requirements

Experience in civil rights, environmental law, and/or social justice advocacy is required. Candidates should have a law degree from an ABA-accredited law school, be licensed to practice law in New Mexico, and have demonstrated success in legal advocacy and community organizing. Experience with coalition building, public speaking, and media relations is preferred.

Qualifications

A J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school is required. Candidates must be licensed to practice law in New Mexico. Prior experience in civil rights, environmental law, and/or social justice advocacy is preferred.

Skills

Strong analytical, research, and writing skills are essential. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including public speaking and media relations, are required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with legal research tools are beneficial.

Benefits

After a qualifying period, benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, 403(b) employer match program, vacation, sick leave, holidays, and sabbatical.

Pay

Full-time/exempt annual salary of $65,000 to $90,000 depending on experience.

Schedule

NMELC follows a hybrid work plan (in office and remote). Applicants must live in or be willing to relocate to New Mexico.