Boston, Massachusetts, United States
12 hours ago
Counsel II

Who We Are:

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is the state agency responsible for ensuring clean air, land, and water. Our work impacts every aspect of people's lives and is critical to the health and wellbeing of our residents and visitors. MassDEP is the lead agency for safe management of toxics and hazardous materials, promotion of waste reduction and recycling, preservation of the state's wetlands and coastal resources, air quality monitoring and pollution reduction, and so much more.

Who We Are as an Employer:

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

Description:

MassDEP seeks applicants for the position ofCounsel II. This is a position for an experienced attorney reporting to the Chief Bureau Counsel supporting the Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup (BWSC) in providing legal advice and services, particularly for federal Superfund and state oil and hazardous waste site programs at MassDEP as well as compliance with environmental justice and civil rights laws, and other duties as assigned.

Major duties of the positions include:

Interpretation of laws, rules, regulations, judicial decisions and opinions, including state and federal law, related to Bureau operations, including drafting of legal analysis memoranda, education of staff on the laws, rules, and policies governing such operations, providing legal advice to agency staff when resolving problems and determining appropriate actions; Drafting of legislation, regulations and policies to assist Bureau staff in implementation or improvement of agency operations, based on legal research and agency needs, to streamline agency practices, support operational efficiencies and ensure agency compliance with laws; Providing legal advice to support Bureau permitting, approval and oversight decisions, consistent treatment of regulated parties, correct public notice and comment procedures under state law and consistency with federal law, including the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, when applicable; Acting as legal representative for the agency in administrative hearings and negotiations/dispute resolution by preparing cases and agency positions to ensure the consistent application of laws and to represent the interests of the agency, developing legal strategy by conducting research and analysis, reviewing case files, case history, and evidence submitted by opposing parties to understand the facts and issues and to determine the best evidence and witnesses to present, responding to evidence and witnesses presented by opposing parties, instructing parties and witnesses on procedural format to ensure that all testimony and evidence are properly presented, effectively and efficiently manage the flow of cases and issue recommendations for final decision or resolution of cases, and for some cases, to issue or agree to final resolution without further review; Drafting and reviewing contracts to ensure that all agency activities comply with applicable laws;When drafting legal documents (e.g. memos, decisions, contracts, deeds, pleadings, regulations, opinions, comments) ensure clear communication of information and ensuring that such documents are complete, accurate, available for future review and in compliance with law; Communicating with representatives of other agencies, including the Legislature, and collaborate with cross-functional or cross-agency teams and stakeholders to share information, resolve issues and develop or implement new programs;Providing information to the public by answering inquiries regarding agency functions, services, rules, and procedures to accurately represent the agency; and Prioritizing and managing personal assigned workloads and caseloads as well as the workloads and caseloads of direct reports, if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of theory, principles and practices of law.Knowledge of procedures followed in courtroom and administrative proceedings.Knowledge of the methods and ability to conduct legal research and technical report writing.Ability to read and interpret legal documents and apply the law, rules and regulations governing agency operations. Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment.Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people.Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to clearly and concisely express thoughts and develop ideas in a logical manner.Ability to lead or work with cross-functional project teams and to manage multiple projects and project teams.Ability to exercise discretion in safeguarding information through compliance with rules of disclosure.Ability to supervise, including planning and assigning work according to the nature of the job to be accomplished, the capabilities of subordinates, and available resources; controlling work through periodic reviews and/or evaluations; determining the need for and recommending disciplinary action.Ability to use a computer to conduct research, manage databases, and produce written documents.Basic understanding of computer operations and ability to use common software programs including Microsoft Office is expected, but additional training can be provided. Minimum 3 years of environmental or administrative law practice experience, preferably in Massachusetts, and prior knowledge of federal or state environmental law, especially oil and hazardous waste site program law.

A cover letter and resume expressing your interest in this position and a legal writing sample must be submitted as part of the application process. These documents must be specifically attached to the requisition for which you are applying.

Who We Are:

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts’ environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.   Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is the state agency responsible for ensuring clean air, land, and water. Our work impacts every aspect of people's lives and is critical to the health and wellbeing of our residents and visitors. MassDEP is the lead agency for safe management of toxics and hazardous materials, promotion of waste reduction and recycling, preservation of the state's wetlands and coastal resources, air quality monitoring and pollution reduction, and so much more.

Who We Are as an Employer:

At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.

Description:

MassDEP seeks applicants for the position ofCounsel II. This is a position for an experienced attorney reporting to the Chief Bureau Counsel supporting the Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup (BWSC) in providing legal advice and services, particularly for federal Superfund and state oil and hazardous waste site programs at MassDEP as well as compliance with environmental justice and civil rights laws, and other duties as assigned.

Major duties of the positions include:

Interpretation of laws, rules, regulations, judicial decisions and opinions, including state and federal law, related to Bureau operations, including drafting of legal analysis memoranda, education of staff on the laws, rules, and policies governing such operations, providing legal advice to agency staff when resolving problems and determining appropriate actions; Drafting of legislation, regulations and policies to assist Bureau staff in implementation or improvement of agency operations, based on legal research and agency needs, to streamline agency practices, support operational efficiencies and ensure agency compliance with laws; Providing legal advice to support Bureau permitting, approval and oversight decisions, consistent treatment of regulated parties, correct public notice and comment procedures under state law and consistency with federal law, including the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, when applicable; Acting as legal representative for the agency in administrative hearings and negotiations/dispute resolution by preparing cases and agency positions to ensure the consistent application of laws and to represent the interests of the agency, developing legal strategy by conducting research and analysis, reviewing case files, case history, and evidence submitted by opposing parties to understand the facts and issues and to determine the best evidence and witnesses to present, responding to evidence and witnesses presented by opposing parties, instructing parties and witnesses on procedural format to ensure that all testimony and evidence are properly presented, effectively and efficiently manage the flow of cases and issue recommendations for final decision or resolution of cases, and for some cases, to issue or agree to final resolution without further review; Drafting and reviewing contracts to ensure that all agency activities comply with applicable laws;When drafting legal documents (e.g. memos, decisions, contracts, deeds, pleadings, regulations, opinions, comments) ensure clear communication of information and ensuring that such documents are complete, accurate, available for future review and in compliance with law; Communicating with representatives of other agencies, including the Legislature, and collaborate with cross-functional or cross-agency teams and stakeholders to share information, resolve issues and develop or implement new programs;Providing information to the public by answering inquiries regarding agency functions, services, rules, and procedures to accurately represent the agency; and Prioritizing and managing personal assigned workloads and caseloads as well as the workloads and caseloads of direct reports, if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of theory, principles and practices of law.Knowledge of procedures followed in courtroom and administrative proceedings.Knowledge of the methods and ability to conduct legal research and technical report writing.Ability to read and interpret legal documents and apply the law, rules and regulations governing agency operations. Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment.Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people.Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to clearly and concisely express thoughts and develop ideas in a logical manner.Ability to lead or work with cross-functional project teams and to manage multiple projects and project teams.Ability to exercise discretion in safeguarding information through compliance with rules of disclosure.Ability to supervise, including planning and assigning work according to the nature of the job to be accomplished, the capabilities of subordinates, and available resources; controlling work through periodic reviews and/or evaluations; determining the need for and recommending disciplinary action.Ability to use a computer to conduct research, manage databases, and produce written documents.Basic understanding of computer operations and ability to use common software programs including Microsoft Office is expected, but additional training can be provided. Minimum 3 years of environmental or administrative law practice experience, preferably in Massachusetts, and prior knowledge of federal or state environmental law, especially oil and hazardous waste site program law.

A cover letter and resume expressing your interest in this position and a legal writing sample must be submitted as part of the application process. These documents must be specifically attached to the requisition for which you are applying.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and (A) at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law.

Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid Motor Vehicle Drivers License at a Class level specific to assignment.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC)may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and (A) at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law.

Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid Motor Vehicle Drivers License at a Class level specific to assignment.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC)may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

Confirm your E-mail: Send Email