DirectJobHub
Jobs · Alaska

Natural Resources Attorneys (2 ...

State Bar of Montana · Greater Anchorage Area · 1 wk ago
Full-time

The Natural Resources Section of the Alaska Department of Law offers a unique opportunity to participate in the development of Alaska natural resource management law, support dynamic resource management programs, and witness the real-world application of legal advice provided. Section attorneys typically specialize in program areas but often collaborate on work outside their primary responsibilities, including special projects or newly identified program areas.

About the role

The Natural Resources Section advises clients and litigates regarding:

  • Administration of the State’s 100-million-acre land base, including public domain, forests, state parks, state refuges, and public trust doctrine lands;
  • Major infrastructure development projects (roads, mines, rail corridors, dams, etc.);
  • Management of the State’s fish and game resources;
  • Projects involving other state land administrators such as the Trust Land Office, the Alaska Railroad Corporation, and the University of Alaska, as well as private landowners.

Attorneys work closely with client program managers in litigation (administrative, state, and federal forums), complex litigation, administrative appeals, major resource development projects, program initiatives, legislation and regulation drafting, and daily operational advice.

Responsibilities

The section seeks two experienced litigation attorneys to support clients, including:

  • The Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land, mining, water, state parks, and forestry programs;
  • The Department of Fish and Game and the Board of Fisheries and Board of Game;
  • The Mental Health Trust Land Office.

Selected attorneys will also handle a variety of advice matters in the section’s portfolio, including land and resource management programs and federal matters pertaining to Alaska’s resource management interests. Client program assignments will be based on attorney experience, skills, and interest.

State and federal court litigation will be a significant part of this position, along with agency advice. Occasional travel may be required.

Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Have graduated from an accredited law school with a strong knowledge of general legal principles applicable to state government;
  • Be familiar with Alaska history and Alaska natural resource management programs and policies;
  • Have three or more years of experience in state court litigation, including first-chair responsibility, and in matters concerning land law, water law, and administrative law (strongly preferred);
  • Demonstrate strong communication, oral advocacy, writing, and time management skills;
  • Exhibit excellent professional judgment and an interest in working on complex matters;
  • Handle a high volume of work, including state and federal court litigation, and cooperatively prioritize work with several clients;
  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues and clients;
  • Possess strong interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work well with colleagues and support staff;
  • Be highly motivated and able to work individually and as a team member with minimum supervision.

Applicants should identify the nature and extent of their litigation experience and familiarize themselves with the programs administered by the following, indicating program areas of interest in their applications:

  • Alaska Department of Natural Resources Divisions of Mining, Land & Water, Forestry and Fire Protection, Parks and Outdoor Recreation;
  • Mental Health Trust Land Office;
  • Department of Fish and Game and the Boards of Fisheries and Game.

Benefits

Attorneys in the Civil Division work on matters of statewide importance while enjoying Alaska’s dramatic scenery, outdoor activities (skiing, hiking, kayaking), and abundant wildlife. Flexible schedules, including hybrid telework arrangements, may be available.

Similar jobs