We’re Hiring: Senior Litigation Counsel (Environmental, Preservation, & Administrative Law)
We are seeking a seasoned litigator with deep expertise in federal environmental, preservation, and administrative law to join our team. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience litigating cases under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), particularly in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
The person stepping into this role will take ownership of an active portfolio of high-profile federal litigation and will play a leading role in developing and advancing new cases. We are looking for a strategic thinker and skilled advocate who is motivated by a commitment to defending the rule of law and ensuring that federal agencies comply with statutory and constitutional mandates. This position can be fully remote with the understanding that travel to Washington, D.C., will be required for court.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage complex litigation in federal court, with a focus on NEPA, NHPA, and APA claims.
- Assume primary responsibility for an existing docket of cases, including briefing, oral argument, case strategy, and client communication.
- Develop and file new cases challenging unlawful federal agency actions.
- Drive litigation strategy independently, from administrative record review to dispositive motion practice.
- Conduct administrative record review and develop evidentiary and procedural strategies.
- Present oral arguments in federal district and appellate courts.
- Supervise junior attorneys and collaborate with co-counsel, experts, and clients.
- Contribute to organizational strategy and thought leadership in cultural heritage, environmental, and administrative law.
Qualifications
- J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
- 7–10+ years of litigation experience, with a substantial portion devoted to federal court practice.
- Demonstrated expertise litigating NEPA, NHPA, and APA cases.
- Significant experience in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia; appellate experience preferred.
- Proven ability to manage complex cases independently and lead litigation strategy.
- Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
- Admission to the D.C. Bar (or eligibility to waive in promptly).
- Strong commitment to the rule of law and to holding government actors accountable under statutory and constitutional frameworks.
Preferred Attributes
- Experience handling high-profile or time-sensitive litigation.
- Familiarity with federal agency processes and administrative records.
- Appellate advocacy experience in the D.C. Circuit or other federal courts of appeals.
- Experience with press and public communications strategy and execution.
- Experience mentoring junior attorneys and managing litigation teams.
- Good sense of humor.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to lead meaningful, high-impact litigation at the intersection of cultural heritage, environmental, and administrative law.
- A collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven work environment.
- Comprehensive benefits including premium health coverage, generous vacation time, retirement plans, and professional development support.
About Cultural Heritage Partners (CHP)
Cultural Heritage Partners is a private law firm with a public mission: to leverage humanity’s past to create a better future. We are the world’s premier firm in our field, serving a global clientele that includes Tribal and First Nations, governments, and preservation organizations.
Our team—comprising attorneys, historians, archaeologists, and subject matter experts—has secured landmark victories that have strengthened international and federal preservation law; protected important sites, objects, and traditions; affirmed the sovereignty of Tribal and First Nations; and helped communities whose culture has been systematically devalued be heard in the courts, legislatures, and before international tribunals.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample (preferably a federal court brief), and references to jobs@culturalheritagepartners.com. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.