Senior General Counsel - Remote (Conservation NGO)

American Rivers; United States; Hybrid; USD 181,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rivers seeks a General Counsel to lead the organization’s legal function, oversee its four-person team, and advise the executive leadership on governance, compliance, contracts, employment law, and tax matters. The role reports to the President & CEO and supports Board governance and strategy.

Hybrid or remote work with ET hours when needed, with travel to board meetings as required. The General Counsel will partner with program staff, manage outside counsel, and drive risk management

Qualifications

• J.D. and bar admission in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Minimum 15 years legal practice with senior attorney experience.
• Experience supervising legal staff and outside counsel.
• Experience with nonprofit governance and 501(c)(3)/(4) compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the legal department, including staff and summer interns.
• Draft and negotiate contracts, master agreements, and regulatory-compliant documents.
• Advise executive leadership and the Board on governance, compliance, risk, and tax matters.
• Oversee outside counsel strategy and budget, and ensure timely, practical legal support.
• Support employment law issues and internal policy development.

Skills

Contract negotiation

Regulatory compliance

Risk management

Board liaison

Leadership

Education

J.D. degree

Job description

American Rivers seeks a General Counsel to lead the organization’s legal function, oversee its four-person team, and advise the executive leadership on governance, compliance, contracts, employment law, and tax matters. The role reports to the President & CEO and supports Board governance and strategy.

Hybrid or remote work with ET hours when needed, with travel to board meetings as required. The General Counsel will partner with program staff, manage outside counsel, and drive risk management