General Counsel

ACC - Association of Corporate Counsel; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 380,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bay Area Air Quality Board is seeking a General Counsel to lead a legal team of 18 professionals and serve on the executive leadership team. The ideal candidate combines deep California environmental law experience with practical, solutions-oriented judgment to advance policy and protect public health.

Applicants should have a law degree, active California Bar membership, and extensive experience in environmental and regulatory matters, including the Clean Air Act, permitting, litigation,

Qualifications

• J.D./equivalent law degree required.
• Active Bar membership in California in good standing required.
• Substantial experience in California environmental and regulatory law.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 18 professionals and advise executive leadership.
• Advise on Clean Air Act compliance, permitting, and environmental governance.
• Balance legal risk with mission-driven decision-making and stakeholder consensus.

Education

J.D./Equivalent law degree

Active California Bar membership

Job description

A rare opportunity to join one of the nation’s most respected air quality agencies to advance innovative environmental policy, protect public health, and improve quality of life for more than seven million Bay Area residents. The next General Counsel will lead a talented team of 18 professionals and join a highly respected executive leadership team.

The Board seeks an accomplished, collaborative environmental legal professional who combines exceptional legal expertise and judgment with a practical, solutions-oriented approach. The successful candidate will bring substantial experience in California environmental and regulatory law, the Clean Air Act, permitting, litigation, governance, and environmental justice. This politically astute, approachable leader will be a trusted strategic partner who balances legal risk with mission-driven decision-making and navigates and builds consensus among diverse stakeholders.

Executive or senior-level public agency experience in environmental law is desired. A law degree and active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California are required.

The Board is committed to being competitive with the market while remaining fiscally responsible. Salary will be DOQE (incumbent salary: $416,720) and is supplemented by an attractive benefits package.

Closes at 11:59 pm on Sunday, September 20, 2026.