Oceans Special Project Attorney

Job Title: Oceans Special Project Attorney
Program: Oceans

Employment Type: [X] Salary [ ] Hourly ( exempt – this position is not eligible for over-time)

[ ] Part-time [X] Full-time

[ ] Temporary [X] Regular* - two-year temporary position
Reports to: Oceans Director
Direct Reports to this position: N/A
Salary Range: Dependent on MOU
Location: Remote or Oakland

Is this position in the Bargaining Unit? [] Yes [X] No

How to apply: Please apply online by completing our application and submitting a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and reference list. The position will remain open until filled. The desired start date is 10/12/2026. Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. No telephone calls, please.

ABOUT THE CENTER
The Center for Biological Diversity , a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, believes the welfare of human beings is deeply linked to nature — to the existence of a vast diversity of wild animals, plants and people. Because diversity has intrinsic value, and because its loss impoverishes society, we work to secure a future for all species, great and small, hovering on the brink of extinction. We do so through science, law, activism and creative media, with a focus on protecting the lands, waters and climate that humans, other species and all communities need to survive and thrive.

We want those who come after us to inherit a world where the wild is still alive.

POSITION SUMMARY

The attorney will work as part of a team using law and advocacy to address threats and increase marine wildlife and habitat protections. The Oceans program leverages our bedrock environmental laws to protect coral reefs, sea turtles, whales and other marine animals. They will work with experienced attorneys who will provide supervision, training, and mentorship. The attorney will assist with legal research and writing, litigation, and administrative advocacy. This is a two-year position with opportunities to learn unique skills from our motivated, experienced, and creative staff of lawyers, scientists, campaigners, and organizers to launch their careers in public interest environmental law.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

- Litigate under the supervision of experienced attorneys, including oral argument;

- Conduct legal research and writing, including preparing legal memos, brief writing, cite checking, and preparing filings;

- Administrative advocacy including legal and scientific comments on proposed rulemakings and environmental review documents and oral testimony;

- Coordinate with our team and partner organizations to advance an ocean policy reform agenda, including developing policy and legal strategies that protect biodiversity;

- Research and develop expertise on ocean issues and science;

- Prepare communications such as press releases, op-eds, fact sheets, action alerts and white papers;

- Complete other project work outside of the program as needed to meet changing organizational priorities;

- Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

- Juris Doctor degree

- Admission to the bar of your state, California or District of Columbia bar membership a plus

- Two to five years of civil litigation experience, environmental law preferred.

- Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.

- Familiarity with environmental laws.

- A demonstrated commitment to environmental protection.

- A strong work ethic, time management, and organizational skills.

- Ability to work independently and as a part of an effective team.

- Competence in and commitment to principles of justice, equity and inclusion.

- Scientific literacy is preferred.

- Ability to work 40+ hours per week.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Travel required, at times on short notice. Requires work in an office setting, with a typical schedule of Monday-Friday with some night and weekend work required at times due to deadlines. May need to use typical office equipment such as