Attorney Advisor (Environmental Law) at Republic Services

Tour of Duty: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

Promotion Potential: None

Duration of Appointment: Legal Service (LS)

The Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia (Commission), a leading utility regulatory agency, is looking for an Attorney Advisor in the area of environmental law. This position is in the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) and is responsible for all legal issues involving the day-to-day operations of the Commission, as well as a broad spectrum of issues that relate to the Commission’s regulatory responsibilities. OGC represents and advises the Commission on all actions and proceedings set forth in the enabling statute or any other legislation. The staff of attorneys prepare orders, advisory memoranda, and assist the Commissioners in conducting all proceedings of the Commission.

This position provides legal utility regulatory expertise to the Commission, General Counsel, Deputy General Counsel and Commission staff on a variety of regulatory matters and issues. The work involves providing legal advice in the areas of renewable energy, environmental and climate change, renewable energy procurements and incentive programs, energy efficiency programs and regulations, climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. The incumbent also provides legal advice in guiding the Commission in advancing the District of Columbia’s environmental and greenhouse gas reduction goals by making recommendations related to utilities’ programs and proposals.

The incumbent drafts orders, memos, motions, and other documents, and prepares briefs and post-trial documents for public utility cases. Conducts legal research and provides detailed oral and/or written advice with respect to proposed actions, alternative actions, and hypothetical situations. Reviews and analyzes records of hearings, including briefs, exceptions, rulings, tentative decisions, and reports of finding of facts and conclusions of law. Prepares and files appropriate responses with respect to such matters. Performs functions related to case and calendar management, e.g., preparation of case-transfer of close-out reports, case file entry, documentation of action, timely review of legal proceedings, and any other administrative functions associated with the conclusion of matters. The incumbent will be under the direct supervision of the Deputy General Counsel.

The Commission is currently deploying a hybrid telework schedule, which includes three days per week of teleworking, and two days each week in our 13th and G Street offices. We also offer flex time schedules. The Commission also offers a competitive salary range, a generous travel stipend for public transportation, as well as an attractive benefits package. The Commission's benefits package encompasses a flexible menu of comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance options, as well as a strong set of portable retirement benefits and savings options. The Commission also offers attractive vacation and sick leave time, as well as paid holidays, consistent with District government provisions. As an organization dedicated to professional development and learning, the Commission encourages staff to participate in regulatory and industry association activities, as well as educational and professional training. Tuition reimbursement may also be available.

Collective Bargaining Unit

This position is in the collective bargaining unit represented by C34/AFGE 1403, and you may elect to join the union.

Qualifications

Candidate must possess in-depth knowledge of pertinent Federal and District laws applicable to the Commission, regulatory issues as well as competitive concepts, principles, and practices. In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local precedent decisions. Expert knowledge of emerging and cutting-edge environmental and climate change advanced technologies. Expertise in environmental and climate change laws and policies in the District and throughout the United States. In-depth knowledge of research strategies and techniques sufficient to research the most sensitive and complex legal issues which are almost always factually complex and may be in areas of law that are in a continual state of evolution, thus requiring atypical and innovative research strategies. In-depth knowledge of the controlling statutes, regulations, and case law pertaining to the subject matter of the issue sufficient to develop legal opinions whether through the litigation process or administratively, which may alter the state of the law in the area. Advanced analytical skills and keen ability to resolve legal and regulatory issues in an organized, systematic, and effective manner. Highly skilled in identifying and isolating controlling regulatory and competitive issues from complex factual situations. Effective communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Strong presentation skills.

Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.) from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) at the time of appointment, plus a minimum of at least three (3) years of relevant related professional legal experience. Must be an active member in good standing of the District of Columbia Bar, or eligible for waiver into the bar. If eligible for waiver, incumbent must successfully obtain admission to the D.C. Bar within one year (360 days) of commencing employment with the Office of the General Counsel of the Commission. Experience in a utility regulatory environment preferred.

Work Environment

The work is performed in an office setting.