How to apply for Senior Attorney

About Center for Biological Diversity

The Center for Biological Diversity works on protecting endangered species by preserving critical lands, waters, and the climate. The organization uses legal and administrative tools to achieve conservation goals. This role is part of the Endangered Species program and is in a bargaining unit.

About the role

The Senior Attorney advocates for endangered species conservation using laws like the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Administrative Procedures Act. The role involves research, writing, and public speaking to protect species from threats. It reports to the Endangered Species Director and is remote, based in Portland, OR.

A typical day

A typical day might involve researching legal issues related to endangered species, drafting legal documents, and communicating with team members or external parties. The role is remote, so much of the work is done independently, but collaboration with the Endangered Species Director and others may occur via virtual meetings. Public speaking or advocacy events may also be part of the schedule.

Who Center for Biological Diversity is looking for

• Has strong research, writing, and public speaking skills.
• Can think strategically and creatively about legal tools for conservation.
• Has experience with environmental laws such as the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Administrative Procedures Act.
• Is comfortable working remotely and is based in or willing to work from Portland, OR.

Tips for this application

• Submit a cover letter, resume, references, and a writing sample as required. The writing sample should demonstrate legal research and writing skills relevant to environmental law.
• Apply online through the Center for Biological Diversity's application system. Do not call to follow up; only selected applicants will be contacted.
• Highlight any experience with the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, or Administrative Procedures Act in your application materials.
• Mention your ability to work remotely and your connection to Portland, OR, if applicable, since the location is listed as Remote, Portland, OR.
• Be aware that the position is in a bargaining unit and some fees may be required depending on where you live as a condition of employment.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your experience using administrative and legal tools, especially the Endangered Species Act, to protect species.', 'Your strategic and creative thinking in legal advocacy for conservation.', 'Your research, writing, and public speaking skills, with examples.', 'Why you want to work for the Center for Biological Diversity specifically on endangered species issues.']

Research before applying

• Review the Center for Biological Diversity's website, especially their Endangered Species program and recent legal cases.
• Learn about the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Administrative Procedures Act as they relate to the organization's work.
• Understand the bargaining unit status and what fees might apply based on your location.
• Check the desired start date (June 8, 2026) and the rolling application review process to plan your submission.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Your experience with the Endangered Species Act and other environmental laws.
• How you approach strategic and creative legal thinking in conservation cases.
• Examples of your research, writing, and public speaking in a legal context.
• How you handle remote work and collaboration with a team.
• Your understanding of the Center for Biological Diversity's work and the Endangered Species program.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not submitting all required materials: cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample.
• Using generic language that does not show specific interest in endangered species conservation or the Center for Biological Diversity.
• Failing to demonstrate experience with the specific laws mentioned in the job description.