Staff Attorney, Protection of Amphibians and Reptiles

~ The Center for Biological Diversity is a 501(c)3 nonprofit conservation organization with more than 800,000 members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places. ~

Position Overview  

This position will involve using applicable laws, including the Endangered Species Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Administrative Procedures Act and others to protect amphibian and reptile species from the many threats they face. This will require a dynamic, dedicated individual with a background in law, advocacy and biology.

Note: The Center has offices in Tucson; San Francisco; Portland, Oregon; St. Petersburg, Florida; Minneapolis; Denver, Richmond, Vermont; and Washington, D.C. The preferred location for this position are St. Petersburg, Florida, or Washington, D.C., but others are negotiable.  

Responsibilities  

Main duties:  

• Expand the Center's amphibian and reptile conservation work.
• Identify and carry out opportunities to protect imperiled amphibians and reptiles from urban sprawl, pollution, logging, livestock grazing and other threats through litigation.
• Prepare petitions to list amphibians and reptiles under the Endangered Species Act.
• Develop detailed knowledge of the status of North American amphibians and reptiles.
• Build relationships with key scientists studying amphibians and reptiles.
• Utilize litigation and media campaigns to highlight the threats to imperiled amphibians and reptiles.
• Advocate for comprehensive protection of amphibians and reptiles as a response to litigation and other pressure. 

Qualifications   

Essential qualities, qualifications and skills desired:  

• At least two years experience as an environmental attorney.
• Experience litigating under the Endangered Species Act.
• Knowledge of the status, biology of, and threats to North American amphibians and reptiles.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Background in leading litigation projects and working collaboratively with peers.
• Dynamic and assertive personality. 

Compensation: Salary is commensurate with experience. The Center offers an excellent benefits package, including employer-paid medical, dental, vision and disability insurance, as well as a 403(b) retirement savings plan with employer match. 

To Apply  

• Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to email a cover letter, a résumé, references and a writing sample.
• Be sure to indicate: "Attn: Attorney Job."
• The position will remain open until filled.
• Please mention how you learned of this opening.
• No telephone calls, please. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.