Staff Attorney, Fossil Economy

Core responsibilities:

• Develop and apply analyses of relevant regulatory frameworks (including environmental, financial, trade, etc.) to contribute to CIEL and movement strategies for confronting petrochemical pollution and false solutions
• Draft legal documents for permit challenges, administrative proceedings, regulatory notice-and-comment periods, and other relevant processes
• Represent CIEL in coalitions, public meetings, workshops, hearings, press, and other instances as assigned
• Propose, draft, and edit reports, briefings, fact sheets, and other written materials to convey research and analysis to movement partners and media

This role confronts the expansion of the petrochemicals sector and curtails false climate solutions that threaten to extend fossil fuel dependence, working to address converging planetary crises through legal and regulatory interventions.

Required qualifications:

• J.D. or equivalent degree with 2 years of relevant experience in a legal role
• Knowledge of US law and familiarity with EU legal systems, and ability to quickly navigate new legal and regulatory frameworks
• Ability to write clearly and concisely in accordance with standards for legal submissions
• Professional spoken and written proficiency in English
• Ability to travel occasionally for periods of up to 2 weeks

CIEL offers a strong benefits package including employer-subsidized health, dental, and vision; paid vacation, sick, and 18 weeks of parental leave; 5% contribution of gross annual salary into a 403(b) retirement account or similar local benefit; a relocation stipend; dedicated professional development funding; and paid sabbatical leave after 7 years. Full-time employees qualify for the US Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Remote workers receive a one-time $750 stipend plus $250 per year for workspace maintenance.

For 30 years, CIEL has used the power of law to protect the environment, promote human rights, and ensure a just and sustainable society through a collaborative team of international attorneys and experts.