Most environmental law jobs are in legal services, and the highest-paying jobs are in the federal government. In May 2020, the median annual salary for lawyers was $126,930.2 “When you have a more complete purpose at work, it`s easier to feel engaged than to be burnt out,” says Nita Cumello, Global Client Director and Director of Wellness for Global Large Law at Thomson Reuters. She encourages lawyers to understand what their law firms are working towards and how they contribute to that work. “When people have a clear goal, the team is more engaged, the culture thrives and the environment is healthier overall,” she says. 9. Waste management companies hire in-house lawyers to support field operations, environmental and regulatory issues, health and safety issues, plant licensing, government and regulatory matters, real estate, and litigation. 5. Lawyer – Climate ChangeLawyers rewrite environmental regulations and interpret and amend applicable laws to respond to changing climate conditions. In general, environmental advocates deal with all issues that affect the environment and public health. An environmental advocate could take on the responsibilities of these roles: Get involved in your passion for protecting the environment.
The Master of Jurisprudence in Environmental Law Online from Tulane University School of Law provides insight into evolving regulations and training to address issues on all sides of environmental issues. 1. Energy producers Energy companies need business advice to provide legal support for due diligence, land campaigns, procurement, acquisitions, joint ventures, sales, construction and litigation. A change of job or industry is certainly an option. But what if you love your current job in the legal environment? What if you want to stay where you are and enjoy more balance and well-being in your life? 2. Staff Attorneys and Federal Prosecutors advise legislators on environmental issues and help develop policies that have a direct or indirect impact on the environment. 7. Public Utilities CommissionsIn this role, environmentalists evaluate utility demands, prepare legal filings, advise leaders, and formulate substantive positions on issues that affect the overall regulation of utilities. 10. Many federal government agencies and departments hire environmental advocates, such as the Environmental Protection Agency, US Air Force, National Security Agency, Drug Enforcement Administration, Central Intelligence Agency, etc. 9. Department HeadsDepartment heads advise companies on best practices for green business decisions.
The qualities required for this type of position include legal knowledge and exceptional organizational and leadership skills. 4. MunicipalitiesMunicipalities hire environmental advocates to support the city`s land use functions. Lawyers can also advise other municipal departments on legal, regulatory and environmental matters and assist the planning committee. Lawyers may represent the city before administrative authorities, before municipal courts or tribunals, at board and commission meetings, or in real estate transactions. 6. Law firms, large and small, may hire employees specializing in environmental law to support community groups or businesses. 3.
Commercial developers Commercial developers often rely on consultation to prepare and/or review contracts related to ownership, as well as to assist with land use, zoning, claims and environmental law issues. 10. Policy Advisors Conduct research and analysis on environmental regulations, procedures and practices, and aggregate new scientific research to provide strategic reports on environmental impacts to legislators and public authorities. Environmentalists can challenge issues of water quality, land use, and nuclear waste at power plants. They can also advise municipalities, manufacturers or developers on how to minimize their environmental impact.1 Environmental law can be a great career, especially for those who already have experience in a regulated industry, regulator or advocacy group. 8. Advocacy groupsIn an advocacy group, an environmental advocate would work with others to achieve environmental justice, such as advocating for open spaces and implementing clean energy solutions. Join Tulane Law School and expand your knowledge of resource conservation, environmental tort law, regulations regulating pollution and hazardous waste, and the overall complexity of their management. The essential legal skills you gain at Tulane will have a long-term impact on your career, your community, and the planet.
This article explores the best jobs in environmental law, what they involve and where to look for them.