Defenders of Wildlife
Published: May 21, 2025
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Description
Defenders of Wildlife is dedicated to the protection of all native animals and plants in their natural communities. Founded in 1947, Defenders of Wildlife is the premier U.S.-based national conservation organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of imperiled species and their habitats in North America.
Defenders’ approach is direct and straightforward – We protect and restore imperiled species throughout North America by transforming policies and institutions and by promoting innovative solutions. We speak with one voice informed by scientific, legal and policy expertise, hands-on wildlife management experience and effective advocacy.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Staff Attorney position requires working knowledge of federal environmental and natural resources law and significant litigation experience. Primary emphasis is on litigating cases under federal wildlife and natural resources laws to conserve biological diversity, drafting comments on proposed rulemakings, working with and advising field and program staff on legal and policy matters, and helping to develop and advance Defenders’ conservation policies.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and litigate cases under various federal statutes to protect imperiled wildlife species, to conserve wildlife, habitat, and ecosystems in the face of global warming, and to ensure conservation of wildlife and habitat on federal public lands;
- Draft public comments on proposed rulemakings;
- Advise Defenders’ field and program staff on conservation law and policy matters;
- Review and analyze legislation;
- Actively participate in the development and advancement of Defenders’ conservation policy goals;
- Perform all other related duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
Education: JD or equivalent; appropriate state bar license required
Experience: 3+ years of litigation experience
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities for Staff Attorney
Legal Knowledge and Skills
- Ability to carry-out all aspects of litigation with minimal supervision, including development of legal claims, ability to analyze voluminous factual records and identify key facts supporting legal claims, drafting pleadings and legal briefs, and present oral argument.
- Working knowledge of and the ability to research environmental and administrative laws, agency regulations and guidance, executive orders, etc. (Examples of relevant laws include the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, Clean Water Act, National Forest Management Act, Refuge Improvement Act, Administrative Procedure Act, Freedom of Information Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and other federal statutes.)
- Working knowledge of and the ability to research case law and legal precedent, court procedures and rules, agency decisions, etc.
- Understands and interprets written material, including technical material, rules and procedures, instructions, etc.
Written Communication
- Communicates information in a succinct and organized manner; uses correct grammar, punctuation, and citations
- Produces written information that is appropriate for the intended audience
Oral Communication
- Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of information
- Makes clear and convincing oral presentations. Listens effectively; clarifies information as needed
Strategic Thinking
- Develop innovative litigation strategies and cases to advance Defenders’ mission
- Formulates objectives and priorities; anticipates potential risks and opportunities
- Actively participates in the development and advancement of Defenders’ conservation policy goals
Professional Development Other
- Assesses and recognizes own strengths and weaknesses; pursues self-development
- Uses efficient learning techniques to acquire and apply new knowledge and skills; uses training, feedback, and other opportunities for self-learning and development
Other
- Demonstrated commitment to public-interest advocacy, environmental protection, and natural resources conservation
- Travel is occasionally required for events such as conferences and court hearings
All employees are required to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and responsibilities of their positions. The essential duties and responsibilities listed above are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Defenders of Wildlife provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, veterans' status or and any other legally protected class, characteristic or trait per applicable federal, state, or local law.
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