Application Guide
How to Apply for Two-Year Project Attorney, Healthy States Project
at Earthjustice
🏢 About Earthjustice
Earthjustice is the premier nonprofit environmental law organization, known for its relentless litigation to protect the planet and combat climate change. Working here means joining a team of passionate attorneys dedicated to using the power of the law to create a healthier, more just world. The organization's commitment to environmental justice and innovative legal strategies makes it a unique and impactful place to build a career.
About This Role
This two-year project attorney role focuses on advancing public health through state-level advocacy, targeting toxic exposures and environmental hazards. You'll lead legal research, develop novel state law strategies, and litigate in state courts to reduce toxic threats. The role is highly impactful as it aims to achieve tangible health protections for communities, especially those overburdened by pollution.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might begin with reviewing new state regulations or court filings related to toxics, followed by a strategy call with Earthjustice's policy and communications teams. Afternoon hours could be spent drafting a legal memorandum on a novel state law claim or preparing for a hearing in state court. The role involves frequent collaboration with co-counsel and community partners, with time also dedicated to developing advocacy materials for campaigns.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Earthjustice Is Looking For
- A seasoned litigator with 7+ years of experience, including state court litigation and familiarity with environmental or toxics law.
- A strategic thinker who can identify and develop innovative legal approaches using state and local laws, not just federal statutes.
- Someone with a demonstrated commitment to social and environmental justice, ideally with experience using legal frameworks to advance equity.
- An excellent writer and oral advocate who can craft compelling legal arguments and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
📝 Tips for Applying to Earthjustice
Tailor your resume to highlight state-level litigation experience and any work involving toxics, environmental health, or public health law.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your past work to Earthjustice's mission of using law to combat climate change and protect communities from pollution.
Mention any experience with advocacy campaigns or working with community groups, as the role involves developing advocacy strategies.
If you have bar membership in a state with active environmental justice movements (e.g., California, New York, Washington), emphasize that.
Research Earthjustice's recent state-level toxics cases and reference one in your application to show genuine interest and fit.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your commitment to environmental justice and how your legal career has advanced public health or community protection.', 'Specific examples of your state court litigation experience and innovative use of state or local laws.', 'Your ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams, including scientists, policy experts, and community organizers.', "Why this two-year project role aligns with your career goals and how you can contribute to Earthjustice's Healthy States Project."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review Earthjustice's Healthy States Project page and recent press releases on state-level toxics litigation.
- → Familiarize yourself with Earthjustice's litigation victories in states like California, Washington, and New York.
- → Research the specific toxic substances the project targets (e.g., PFAS, lead, pesticides) and relevant state laws.
- → Understand Earthjustice's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and how it integrates into their legal work.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Earthjustice or the Healthy States Project specifically.
- Overemphasizing federal litigation experience without demonstrating state-level expertise or interest.
- Failing to highlight any experience with environmental justice or community partnerships, which is a strong preference.
📅 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!