Job Description
Job DescriptionEnergy & Natural Resources Associate – California
Regulatory • Administrative Litigation • Emerging Energy Issues
Direct Counsel is partnering with a respected, full-service law firm to add an Energy & Natural Resources Associate to its growing practice group. This is an exciting opportunity for an attorney who wants to work at the intersection of law, policy, and regulated industries—advising clients on some of the most complex and consequential energy and natural resources issues in California.
Why This Role Stands Out
This practice sits squarely at the center of California’s evolving energy landscape. You’ll work on high-impact matters involving utilities, renewable energy, natural resources, and regulatory policy, with meaningful responsibility and exposure early on. Attorneys with backgrounds in regulatory law, administrative litigation, civil litigation, or other regulated industries will find their skills highly transferable here.
What You’ll Do
-
Research and analyze issues related to energy and natural resources law and policy
-
Represent clients in administrative proceedings and related litigation
-
Advise on matters involving electricity and natural gas utilities, renewable energy, oil & gas, mining, and water rights
-
Draft and negotiate contracts, including leases, joint venture agreements, and purchase/sale agreements
-
Prepare legal memoranda assessing risk, strategy, and alternative problem-solving approaches
-
Assist in developing legal strategies, including analysis of proposed legislation and regulatory frameworks
-
Support administrative hearings, including pleadings, discovery, testimony preparation, witness prep, cross-examination, and oral argument
-
Collaborate with attorneys across practices to deliver comprehensive, business-minded legal advice
Who They’re Looking For
-
J.D. from an accredited law school
-
Active California Bar admission
-
2+ years of experience in regulatory law, administrative litigation, energy & natural resources, or other regulated industries
-
Familiarity with federal and California energy and natural resources regulations
-
Strong research, writing, and analytical skills
-
Experience with or exposure to agencies such as the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) or California Energy Commission (CEC) is a plus
-
Comfortable managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
-
Strategic thinker who can translate complex regulatory issues into practical legal advice
Compensation & Benefits
-
Base Salary Range: $190,000 – $245,000
-
Bonus Potential: Up to $112,500
-
Compensation will vary based on experience, expertise, and performance
-
Comprehensive benefits package provided
The Big Picture
This is an excellent platform for attorneys who want to build a long-term practice in energy and natural resources, gain deep regulatory experience, and work on matters that directly affect infrastructure, sustainability, and public policy across California.
About Direct Counsel
Direct Counsel partners with leading law firms and in-house legal departments nationwide to connect talented attorneys with outstanding opportunities. We take pride in matching professionals with roles that align with their expertise, values, and long-term career goals.
Apply confidentially by sending your resume to sagan@directcounsel.net