California Energy & Environment Associate

Ashurst Perkins Coie; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 310,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual discretionary bonus

401(k) plan

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Parental leave

Paid holidays

Family care benefits

Job summary

Ashurst Perkins Coie LLP is seeking a 4th to 7th-year associate for our California Projects, Energy, Environment and Resources team. The role focuses on guiding major energy and infrastructure projects through regulatory approvals, permitting, and potential litigation in federal and state courts.

Ideal candidates bring 4–7 years of environmental or energy regulatory experience, strong CEQA/NEPA knowledge, and the ability to mentor junior associates while managing client relationships.

Qualifications

• Experience with environmental, land use, or energy regulatory matters at a top law firm or government agency.
• Deep familiarity with CEQA and NEPA is important.
• Specialized knowledge of the CAISO planning process is highly valued.
• Ability to manage matters independently and mentor junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Advise on project development and permitting with emphasis on CEQA/NEPA compliance.
• Represent clients before regulators like CPUC, CEC, and other agencies.
• Defend project approvals in federal and state courts when needed.
• Counsel clients through resource consultation, permitting, and mitigation frameworks.
• Assist with transactional drafting, due diligence, and project financing related to energy infra.

Skills

Environmental regulation

CEQA knowledge

NEPA knowledge

CAISO familiarity

Litigation defense

Client management

Team leadership

CA Bar admission

Job description

Ashurst Perkins Coie LLP is seeking a 4th to 7th-year associate for our California Projects, Energy, Environment and Resources team. The role focuses on guiding major energy and infrastructure projects through regulatory approvals, permitting, and potential litigation in federal and state courts.

Ideal candidates bring 4–7 years of environmental or energy regulatory experience, strong CEQA/NEPA knowledge, and the ability to mentor junior associates while managing client relationships.