Environmental Defense Fund

With world attention on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. By focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches, we tackle urgent threats with practical solutions. We are one of the world’s largest environmental organizations, with more than two million members and a staff of approximately 700 scientists, economists, policy experts, and other professionals around the world. We operate in 22 geographies with unique projects running across four programs. You will be part of a vibrant workplace where innovation and results are a way of life.

EDF envisions a world in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected to the environmental challenges we face and are engaged in creating durable, equitable solutions. We seek talented candidates who share our Core Values of Respect, Results, Innovation, Optimism, and Integrity, and support our Commitment to Diversity.  

Program Overview

EDF's Health Program is committed to improving the public's health by dramatically reducing exposure to toxic chemicals that increase the risk of disease and death, especially in communities and individuals at greatest risk.  We work on a range of legislative, regulatory, scientific, and market-oriented projects to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals already in use and to mitigate potential risks of new substances entering the marketplace to reduce health disparities in current and future generations. EDF advocated for over a decade for reforms to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).  In June 2016, the Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act, a major overhaul of TSCA, was signed into law, paving the way to a more health-protective chemicals management system for the US.  A major priority for EDF's Health program is ensuring implementation of the law results in significant reductions in the public's exposures to toxic chemicals and especially those of communities most exposed or susceptible to the associated health effects. 

Overall Function

Working within our team of attorneys, scientists, economists, and policy specialists, the Senior Attorney will lead development and implementation of legal solutions to protect public health and the environment from toxic chemicals. The Senior Attorney will work with a multi-disciplinary team within the Health program and will report to the Health Program senior management. 

Responsibilities

• Leading the development and implementation of EDF's legal strategy for strong Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act implementation.
• Leading the development of briefs, motions, and other litigation documents.
• Preparing detailed legal and policy comments in response to regulatory proposals.
• Preparing administrative petitions and other formal administrative requests.
• Analyzing key legal authorities and developing legal memoranda in support of strategic decision making.
• Coordinating program legal issues and actions with organizational legal issues.
• Interpreting key court decisions.
• Developing reports and white papers to influence decision-makers and engage in public education and outreach.
• Advocating before federal and state policymakers.
• Maintaining strong relationships with public health, environmental, labor, and academic allies.
• Identifying, advising, and mentoring legal interns.
• Professionally representing EDF and the Health program at various important internal and external events.
• Responding to emerging organizational priorities as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Law degree.
• Active Bar membership.
• More than 5 years working experience in litigation and administrative law.
• Results-oriented, self-starter with the ability to think strategically and work on fast-paced, dynamic issues with colleagues and partners of varied background and experience.
• Collaborative and creative approach to problem solving.
• Management experience desirable.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• A passion for environmental and health protection, a commitment to rigorous analysis, creativity, and a healthy dose of pragmatism.
• Experience or familiarity with TSCA or other federal environmental statutes desirable.
• Some familiarity with chemical toxicity, exposure, and environmental justice desirable.

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter here: https://www.edf.org/jobs/senior-attorney-health-0

Environmental Defense Fund is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.