Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Attorney

at Center for Biological Diversity

🏢 About Center for Biological Diversity

The Center for Biological Diversity is a national nonprofit known for its aggressive, science-based legal advocacy to protect endangered species and wild places. It has a strong track record of winning landmark cases and is driven by a mission to preserve biodiversity in the face of climate change and habitat destruction.

About This Role

As a Senior Attorney, you will lead strategic litigation under the Endangered Species Act and other environmental laws to halt species extinction. Your work will directly impact the preservation of critical habitats and the fight against pollution and exploitation, while also mentoring junior attorneys and building coalitions with partners.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing case documents, drafting legal briefs or motions, and strategizing with colleagues on active litigation. You may also mentor junior attorneys, participate in coalition calls with partner organizations, and prepare for oral arguments or hearings. Remote work requires disciplined time management and regular virtual collaboration.

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🎯 Who Center for Biological Diversity Is Looking For

  • A seasoned environmental litigator with at least 8 years of experience, including direct litigation under the Endangered Species Act.
  • A strategic thinker who can independently develop complex cases, manage a full docket, and identify high-impact opportunities for species protection.
  • An excellent writer and oral advocate with a proven ability to craft compelling legal arguments and communicate persuasively in court and with the media.
  • A collaborative leader who enjoys mentoring newer attorneys and building relationships with partner organizations and government officials.

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for Biological Diversity

1

Tailor your cover letter to highlight specific ESA litigation experience, including case names and outcomes where you played a key role.

2

Demonstrate your commitment to the Center's mission by mentioning any volunteer work, publications, or advocacy related to endangered species or biodiversity.

3

Provide writing samples that showcase your ability to draft clear, persuasive legal documents—preferably briefs or motions from ESA cases.

4

Research the Center's current campaigns and priorities (e.g., specific species or ecosystems they are working to protect) and reference them in your application.

5

Network with current or former Center attorneys to gain insights into the culture and expectations before applying.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience litigating under the Endangered Species Act, including any notable victories or challenges.', 'Your ability to manage a complex docket independently and develop cases from initial investigation to trial.', "Your passion for biodiversity and conservation, and how your values align with the Center's mission.", 'Your experience mentoring others and collaborating with coalition partners to achieve conservation goals.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review the Center's current priority campaigns (e.g., 'Save the Red Wolf', 'Protect the Arctic') and recent litigation victories.
  • → Understand the Center's organizational structure and how the legal team collaborates with other departments like communications and policy.
  • → Read recent news articles or press releases about the Center's work to understand their public messaging and legal strategies.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the Center's stance on climate change and how it intersects with their endangered species work.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a case you litigated under the ESA: what was your strategy, what obstacles did you face, and what was the outcome?
2 How do you prioritize which cases to pursue when resources are limited?
3 How do you approach mentoring junior attorneys while managing your own caseload?
4 What is your experience with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Administrative Procedures Act (APA)?
5 How do you handle working remotely and staying connected with a distributed team?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention specific ESA experience or the Center's mission.
  • Failing to provide writing samples that are directly relevant to environmental law or ESA litigation.
  • Not demonstrating a clear understanding of the Center's unique approach (e.g., their use of citizen suits and aggressive litigation).

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for Biological Diversity!

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