Overview In this role you support DEC Region 4 in Schenectady by leading enforcement efforts and providing high-level legal guidance on permitting and compliance. You will act as a backup to the Regional Attorney, shaping policy, and directing complex enforcement matters. You'll supervise Senior Attorneys and staff, and collaborate with the Attorney General's Office to defend and resolve cases. This position combines leadership, policy development, and expert legal work to protect New York's environmental resources.
Compensation / Benefits- Holiday & Paid Time Off
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System
- Shift & Geographic pay differentials
- Affordable Health Care options
- Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
Responsibilities- Lead significant enforcement matters and provide autonomous legal representation in administrative hearings and permits.
- Draft and negotiate administrative consent orders across multiple programs (Air, Pesticides, Wetlands, Solid Waste, Water, Mining, Real Property, Permits).
- Serve as back-up to the Regional Attorney; supervise and mentor Senior Attorneys, Regional Enforcement Coordinator, and support staff.
- Provide policy development input and high-level legal counsel on permitting and enforcement.
- Assist with hearings and FOIL training for regional staff; coordinate with the Office of the Attorney General on defense of claims in Region 4.
- Handle complex permitting matters and real property inquiries; prepare referrals to the Attorney General and respond to FOIL requests.
- Provide legal advice to staff on program-impacting issues; perform special projects and research as assigned.
Key requirements- Admittance to the NYS Bar
- 4 years of post-bar experience
- Valid driver's license or ability to meet transportation needs; willingness to travel (including overnight) and occasional after-hours emergencies
- leadership
- policy development
- analytical and critical thinking
- environmental law and permitting
- administrative enforcement and hearings
- drafting and negotiating consent orders
