Careers

Experienced Electric Regulatory Associate

Van Ness Feldman seeks an experienced associate to join our national electric practice representing investor-owned utilities, public power utilities, developers, and power marketers in either our Seattle or Washington D.C. offices. The ideal candidate has 4+ years of electric regulatory experience (state or federal) and an aptitude for detailed work on electric regulatory and contract matters.

In addition to joining a premiere national and regional energy practice, candidates will be part of a team that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance through a 1700 annual billable hour requirement (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying pro bono or business development activities). The Firm rewards associates that exceed the target through generous bonuses. The Firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support for one another. A focus on professional development is central, including regular feedback and mentoring. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to what we consider a unique and rewarding Firm culture.

Desired skills and qualifications include:

• Strong analytical research and writing skills;
• Familiarity with the electric power industry;
• Exceptional communication skills;
• Experience Interpreting and applying statutes and regulations;
• Drafting and interpreting contracts;
• Experience before state utility commissions or federal and state courts on energy regulatory matters, including drafting pleadings, testimony or tariffs is a plus.

The Firm operates in a hybrid work environment. Please send confidential inquiries to slr@vnf.com

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The starting annual base salary based on 4 or more years of practice is $185,000-$205,000, depending on experience. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes bonuses for which associates are eligible when they meet or exceed the annual billable hour target.

Land Use/Municipal Attorney(s)

The Seattle office seeks an experienced attorney to join our nationally-ranked, preeminent land use practice in Seattle. We are seeking a mid-level attorney with 4+ years’ experience in land use, municipal, or aligned practice areas. We are also interested in Of Counsel or Lateral Partner candidates.

The ideal candidate has experience in the interpretation, compliance, and defense of actions under Washington State's planning and land use statutes including the Growth Management Act (GMA), Planning Enabling Act, Local Project Review Statute (ch. 36.70B RCW), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA), as well as other state regulations governing development, and accompanying environmental review pursuant to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). We prefer the candidate have strong experience representing clients in local and state administrative proceedings, including before Hearing Examiners, City and County Councils, the Shorelines Hearings Board, Pollution Control Hearings Board, Growth Management Hearings Board and in related judicial appeals, including appeals pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act and the Land Use Petition Act.

In addition to joining our national and regional land use team, the candidate will be part of a Firm that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance. With a 1,700 annual billable hour requirement, (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying pro bono or business development activities), attorneys are encouraged to work hard while cultivating their passions outside the office. The Firm rewards associates who exceed the target with a generous bonus. The Firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support of one another. A focus on professional development is central, which includes regular feedback and training opportunities to enhance professional growth. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to our unique and rewarding Firm culture.

Confidential inquiries can be sent to recruiting@vnf.com or apply here

The Firm provides a hybrid work environment.

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The estimated salary range for a 4+ year associate is $185,000 to $205,000. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes a generous bonus when the annual billable hour target is exceeded. For Of Counsel and Partner candidates, compensation is based on a range of factors DOE.

Real Estate Associate

Van Ness Feldman is seeking an experienced real estate attorney to join our Seattle team. The ideal candidate has 5+ years of substantive experience in commercial, industrial, and residential development, including drafting and negotiating complex documents related to the acquisition and disposition of property, and financing / loan transactions. Candidate should have experience coordinating due diligence reviews (including title and survey) and closings.

We are looking for someone who is team-oriented with strong written and oral communication skills. The ideal candidate should display passion for working hard, take initiative in a fast-paced environment with motivated and collegial colleagues, and enjoy being part of a collaborative and diverse culture that supports our firm values.

Skills and Qualifications Include:

• Representing buyers, sellers, and developers in transactions involving all sizes and types of real estate transactions;
• Performing and coordinating due diligence in the acquisition and financing of real estate for investment, development, occupancy, sales, leasing, and collateralization;
• Representing clients in negotiating and closing on acquisition financing, construction financing, and permanent financing;
• Assisting and coordinating with clients in working with local city and state officials across the country with respect to compliance matters related to the development, redevelopment, and use of property.
• The ideal candidate will have outstanding academic credentials, a strong work ethic, a logical and analytical thought process, excellent organizational, drafting, writing and research skills, as well as the ability to establish strong client and peer relationships.

Candidates will be part of a team that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance. With a 1700 annual billable hour requirement, (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying nonbillable activities), attorneys are encouraged to work hard while cultivating their passions outside the office. The firm rewards associates that exceed the target through generous bonuses. The firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support for one another. A focus on professional development is central, including regular feedback and input on how our team can improve. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to what we consider a unique and rewarding firm culture.

Please send cover letter and resume to recruiting@vnf.com

The Firm operates in a hybrid work environment.

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The starting annual base salary based on 4 or more years of practice is $185,000-$205,000, depending on experience. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes bonuses for which associates are eligible when they meet or exceed the annual billable hour target.

Experienced Environmental / Natural Resources Associates

Van Ness Feldman seeks an experienced environmental/natural resources associates to join our Seattle or Washington DC offices. The ideal candidate has 4+ years of experience in environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, and enforcement, and associated litigation under federal and state environmental laws, such as the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the Clean Water Act (CWA), and the State Environmental Protection Act (SEPA).

In addition to joining one of the region’s premiere environmental practices, candidates will be part of a team that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance. With a 1700 annual billable hour requirement, (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying nonbillable activities), attorneys are encouraged to work hard while cultivating their passions outside the office. The firm rewards associates that exceed the target through generous bonuses. The firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support for one another. A focus on professional development is central, including regular feedback and input on how our team can improve. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to what we consider a unique and rewarding firm culture.

Confidential inquiries can be sent to recruiting@vnf.com

The Firm provides a hybrid work environment.

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The estimated salary range for a 4+ year associate is $185,000 to $205,000. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes a generous bonus when the annual billable hour target is exceeded. For Of Counsel and Partner candidates, compensation is based on a range of factors DOE.

As part of Van Ness Feldman’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are proud to offer the Van Ness Feldman Seattle Diversity Fellowship to an outstanding first year law school student.  The Fellow will receive a paid 1L Summer Associate position in our Seattle office and a $10,000 scholarship to assist with law school tuition.  The Fellowship also includes the opportunity to continue as a VNF Diversity Fellow during the student’s 2L summer, which includes an additional $10,000 scholarship; and a possible offer for full-time employment with signing bonus post law school.

First year students who demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion are encouraged to apply.

Selection Criteria:

The Fellowship is open to all first-year law students who have demonstrated:

• Diverse background and life experiences
• Academic excellence
• Leadership ability
• Commitment to their community
• Desire to promote diversity within the legal profession

Application Materials:

To apply, please submit the following:

• A personal statement addressing the ways in which you have and will foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal community, what these qualities mean to you, and why you are interested in Van Ness Feldman
• Your resume
• Your undergraduate and law school transcripts (if your law school grades are not yet available, please forward when available)
• Two to three professional references
• A legal writing sample that has not been edited by others

Applications must be received no later than Jan 10, 2025. 

Please send materials via email to:

Ms. Saira Rhodes
Van Ness Feldman LLP
1191 Second Ave., Suite 1800
Seattle, WA 98101
slr@vnf.com

As part of Van Ness Feldman’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are proud to offer the Van Ness Feldman D.C. Diversity Fellowship to an outstanding first year law school student.  The Fellow will receive a paid 1L Summer Associate position in our D.C. office and a $10,000 scholarship to assist with law school tuition.  The Fellowship also includes the opportunity to continue as a VNF Diversity Fellow during the student’s 2L summer, which includes an additional $10,000 scholarship; and a possible offer for full-time employment with signing bonus post law school.

First year students who demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion are encouraged to apply.

Selection Criteria:

The Fellowship is open to all first-year law students who have demonstrated:

• Diverse background and life experiences
• Academic excellence
• Leadership ability
• Commitment to their community
• Desire to promote diversity within the legal profession
   

Application materials needed include: 

• A personal statement addressing the ways in which you have and will foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal community, what these qualities mean to you, and why you are interested in Van Ness Feldman
• Your resume
• Your undergraduate and law school transcripts (if your law school grades are not yet available, please forward when available)
• Two to three professional references
• A legal writing sample that has not been edited by others

Applications must be received no later than Jan 10, 2025 and can be sent to recruiting@vnf.com 

At Van Ness Feldman, diversity and inclusion encompass a wide range of characteristics including age, race, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, physical ability, military service, religion and other groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession. The firm is committed to maintaining a work environment where the unique attributes, perspectives, backgrounds, skills, and abilities of each individual thrive and contribute to our collective success.

For more information, please contact Saira Rhodes at slr@vnf.com.  

Van Ness Feldman’s Summer Associate Program is designed to provide law students with diverse opportunities to develop, challenge, and broaden their skills while contributing to the innovative services and counsel delivered to our clients. Summer Associates join Van Ness Feldman’s team of attorneys to provide nationally recognized legal counsel, thought leadership, and policy strategy to clients navigating the complex intersection between business and government.

The firm seeks accomplished, well-rounded, and motivated law students with a demonstrated interest in our core areas of practice. With professionals in Washington D.C., Seattle, the Bay Area, Houston, and Louisiana, we are renowned for providing strategic business advice, legislative and policy advocacy, legal and regulatory compliance counsel, representation in administrative proceedings and litigation, and support for project development, permitting, and transactions in the inter-related areas of energy, natural resources, environmental, real estate/land use, infrastructure, and government relations.

We foster an environment that is uniquely collaborative, rewarding and, we believe, truly different from our competitors. Our team is committed to the development and advancement of our summer associates through challenging assignments, training and mentoring programs, and networking opportunities to help students launch their career.

High academic credentials, journal/moot court experience, a growth mindset, and a great sense of humor required. We look forward to learning more about you and discussing how the Van Ness Feldman family of professionals can be part of your future.

The firm has concluded recruitment for the 2025 2L summer associate class.   

For additional questions regarding our firm, the summer associate program, or our recruiting process, please email recruiting@vnf.com.  

Human Resources Generalist

The DC office is seeking a Human Resources Generalist whose focus will be benefits and compensation. This role will work closely with the firm’s Director of Human Resources to support attorneys and professionals across all offices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs, including but not limited to group health, dental, vision, COBRA, FSA, HSA, parking, life, disability, and wellness initiatives
• Assist with annual open enrollment
• Assist with the development and maintenance of employee benefits communication materials and update the firm’s intranet accordingly
• Perform benefits orientation
• Create and run HRIS reports
• Assist with annual retirement plan audit

• Ensure adherence to compliance requirements for benefit plans, including ACA filing, non-discrimination testing, and 5500 filing
• Process data and maintain the ADP HRIS database for all HR and benefit programs
• Ensure the accuracy of electronic benefits data sent to benefits carriers
• Reconcile benefit invoices
• Maintenance of employee benefits files
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local payroll and benefits regulations
• Assist in developing and implementing new/related processes and technology
• Respond to inquiries regarding benefits
• Support the coordination of annual merit increases and bonuses
• Complete salary surveys and compensation reports, and conduct market research
• Ensure compliance with laws relating to equal pay, job classification, and other relevant regulations
• Provide analytical support for compensation-related projects and initiatives

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in HR management or a related field
• Minimum 5 years of proven payroll and benefits experience including prior work experience in payroll processing and reporting in multiple jurisdictions with multiple sites
• Strong understanding of employee benefits and fringe benefits
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines
• Knowledge of tax regulations and reporting requirements
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and SharePoint
• ADP Workforce Now experience is highly preferred

Salary Range: $60,000 to $65,000

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Benefits include health, dental, 401(k)/profit-sharing plan.

 APPLY AT THIS LINK

Public Policy Assistant

The DC office is seeking a Public Policy Assistant who will play a crucial role in supporting our public policy professionals and attorneys by performing various administrative functions and assisting with researching, analyzing, and advocating for public policy initiatives that align with firm’s goals and client interests.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support policy professionals, clients, trade associations, and other individuals associated with the Firm by organizing and prioritizing tasks/projects with limited supervision.
• Handle client inquiries, schedule meetings, arrange conference calls, and make travel arrangements. Follow up on behalf of professionals and take charge of administrative details.
• Draft, proofread, and edit documents and correspondence using appropriate public policy terminology.
• Create and prepare presentations using relevant software applications.
• Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments relevant to the organization.
• Maintain client confidentiality and organize files according to the firm's Records Retention policy.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping of time entries and expenditures.
• Assist in organizing meetings, conferences, and public events.
• Provide research assistance on a variety of topics under the guidance of public policy professionals.
• Complete special projects as necessary.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a professional services environment. Prior law firm experience a plus.
• Five plus years administrative experience
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and work with individuals at all levels; expert organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to prioritize projects and meet deadlines; excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to work independently and be proactive; ability to make judgment decisions, adapt to changing work situations, grasp and apply new ideas.
• Strong computer/software skills including thorough knowledge of MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Salary Range: $65,000 to $75,000

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Benefits include health, dental, 401(k)/profit-sharing plan. 

APPLY AT THIS LINK

Executive Assistant

The D.C. office is seeking an Executive Assistant to support C-suite professionals, attorneys, and key stakeholders in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This individual will play a crucial role in coordinating administrative functions, managing client interactions, and assisting with initiatives that align with the firm’s strategic goals, with a particular focus on public policy and client advocacy. The Executive Assistant will be responsible for facilitating smooth daily operations and supporting the firm’s public policy and legal efforts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide high-level administrative support to C-suite professionals, attorneys, clients, and trade associations by organizing and prioritizing tasks and projects with limited supervision.
• Manage client inquiries, schedule meetings, arrange conference calls, and coordinate travel arrangements. Follow up on action items and handle administrative details as needed.
• Draft, proofread, and edit documents and correspondence with a focus on clear communication and alignment with public policy objectives.
• Prepare presentations and reports using relevant software applications, ensuring they reflect the firm’s position on key public policy issues.
• Maintain client confidentiality and ensure compliance with the firm's Records Retention policy by organizing files appropriately.
• Keep accurate records of time entries and expenditures.
• Assist in organizing meetings, conferences, and public events, including those with policy implications and legislative stakeholders.
• Provide support for public policy initiatives, including assisting with background research and preparing materials related to policy advocacy and government relations.
• Assist with special projects and initiatives as directed by the professionals, particularly those related to public policy, legislation, and regulatory matters.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a professional services environment. Prior law firm or public policy-related experience is a plus.
• 5+ years of administrative experience, with a demonstrated ability to work in a high-pressure environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to draft and edit complex documents and correspondences.
• Proactive, with a strong sense of initiative and the ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
• Strong judgment, adaptability, and ability to navigate shifting work priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with advanced skills in creating professional presentations and documents.
• Interest in or experience with public policy, advocacy, and regulatory matters is highly desirable.

Salary Range: $65,000 to $75,000

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Benefits include health, dental, 401(k)/profit-sharing plan. 

APPLY AT THIS LINK

Van Ness Feldman enthusiastically extends an equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, military status, physical disability, or any similarly protected status. The firm has a policy of positive action to ensure the fulfillment of our commitment to a diverse and equitable workplace.

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