Application Guide
How to Apply for Southwest Law Clerk
at Center for Biological Diversity
🏢 About Center for Biological Diversity
The Center for Biological Diversity is a national nonprofit known for its innovative and aggressive legal strategies to protect endangered species and wild places. Working here means joining a passionate team that uses the law, science, and activism to create real change for the planet's most vulnerable creatures.
About This Role
As a Southwest Law Clerk, you'll dive into legal research and writing to support litigation and advocacy for imperiled species in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah's Colorado Plateau. This remote role offers hands-on experience in environmental law, where your work directly contributes to preserving critical habitats and fighting climate change.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with checking emails and reviewing deadlines, then diving into legal research on a species or habitat issue. You could draft memos, assist with pleadings, or attend virtual meetings with attorneys and advocates. Your work will vary, but every task will contribute to protecting the wild.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Center for Biological Diversity Is Looking For
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📝 Tips for Applying to Center for Biological Diversity
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight any coursework, clinics, or internships related to environmental or administrative law.
Research recent cases or campaigns by the Center's Southwest program and mention specific ones that inspire you.
Emphasize your ability to work remotely, including your home office setup and time management skills.
Proofread your application materials meticulously; legal employers are detail-oriented.
Submit your application early, as positions are competitive and reviewed on a rolling basis.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
Your passion for biodiversity and the specific species and landscapes of the Southwest. Relevant legal research and writing experiences, such as moot court, law review, or clinic work. Why you're a great fit for the Center's mission and the Southwest program's goals. Your ability to work independently and manage tasks in a remote environment.
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Explore the Center's website, focusing on the Southwest program's current campaigns and recent victories.
- → Read about the Center's history and its founder, Kieran Suckling, to understand its culture.
- → Look up recent news articles about the Center's litigation in Arizona, New Mexico, or Utah.
- → Familiarize yourself with key environmental laws like the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't submit a generic cover letter; it should be clearly tailored to the Center and this role.
- Avoid overlooking the remote aspect; demonstrate your ability to work without direct supervision.
- Don't neglect to show your commitment to conservation; this is a mission-driven organization.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Center for Biological Diversity!