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Sustainability Counsel - job 1 of 3

Job Description

Join the fight against climate change and take advantage of a unique opportunity on the cutting edge of climate policy at the New York City Department of Buildings. DOB has an essential role in implementing New York City's ground-breaking climate policies, including Local Law 97, which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions from the city's largest buildings. The Department's Bureau of Sustainability is actively developing the policies and regulations needed to advance New York City's climate goals. In a city where buildings contribute nearly three-quarters of our greenhouse gas emissions, a focus on efficiency, building energy usage, and decarbonization is critical. DOB is committed to becoming the nation's premier municipal building organization, enhancing the quality of life for all New Yorkers, and making our city a safer and healthier place to live. Become a member of DO B's Bureau of Sustainability team and make a real difference.

Under supervision, with some latitude for independent judgment and unreviewed action and decision, performs legal work pertaining to sustainable building, including the following:
- Provide legal advice to the Department of Buildings, Bureau of Sustainability team on sustainable building issues, including energy efficiency, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and renewable and clean energy.
- Conduct legal and policy research in support of Sustainability team initiatives.
- Analyze federal, state, local, and international statutes and regulations.
- Draft and edit regulations, proposed legislation, legal memos, policy documents, and responses to letters and other inquiries.
- Assist in the development of building sustainability policy.
- Work collaboratively with all members of the Sustainability team and with agency colleagues and partners.
- Actively undertake and participate in special projects and assignments.
- Any other duties as assigned.

REMOTE WORK:
This position may be eligible for remote work up to 2 days per week, pursuant to the Remote Work Pilot Program.

SALARY INFORMATION
Effective 4/18/2025, the salary range will increase to $73,476-$84,498 due to a collective bargaining increase.

To Apply:
Visit Jobs NYC (cityjobs.nyc.gov) to view and apply for available positions. Search by agency (Department of Buildings), keywords, or for the specific Job ID #.

NOTE: ONLY THOSE CANDIDATES UNDER CONSIDERATION WILL BE CONTACTED.

Additional Information:
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

AGENCY ATTORNEY - 30087

Qualifications

1. Admission to the New York State Bar; and either "2" or "3" below.
2. One year of satisfactory United States legal experience subsequent to admission to any state bar; or
3. Six months of satisfactory service as an Agency Attorney Interne (30086).
Incumbents must remain Members of the New York State Bar in good standing for the duration of this employment.
In addition to meeting the minimum Qualification Requirements:
To be assigned to Assignment Level (AL) II, candidates must have one year of experience at Assignment Level I or two years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment. To be assigned to AL III candidates must have two years of experience in Assignment Levels I and/or II or three years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Average salary estimate

$78987 / YEARLY (est.)
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$73476K
$84498K

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What You Should Know About Sustainability Counsel, City of New York

Are you passionate about climate change and the role law can play in sustainable development? Look no further than the Sustainability Counsel position at the New York City Department of Buildings! This exciting opportunity places you at the forefront of climate policy, working within the Bureau of Sustainability to implement groundbreaking initiatives such as Local Law 97. Did you know that buildings in New York City are responsible for nearly 75% of greenhouse gas emissions? This is where your expertise comes in! As a member of the Bureau, you’ll provide legal guidance on various sustainable building issues, focusing on energy efficiency, greenhouse gas reduction, and renewable energy. Your responsibilities will include conducting legal and policy research, analyzing relevant statutes, and drafting regulations and policy documents. Collaboration is key here; you’ll work closely with the Sustainability team and other agency partners to drive real change. Plus, there's the added benefit of potential remote work for up to two days a week! If you are an attorney with a passion for sustainability and a commitment to building a healthier planet for all New Yorkers, we want to see you apply. Join us in making significant strides towards a greener, more sustainable future as part of the New York City Department of Buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Sustainability Counsel Role at City of New York
What responsibilities does the Sustainability Counsel at the New York City Department of Buildings have?

The Sustainability Counsel at the New York City Department of Buildings is tasked with providing legal advice on sustainable building issues, including energy efficiency, greenhouse gas reduction, and renewable energy. This role involves conducting legal and policy research, analyzing various statutes and regulations, drafting legal memos and policy documents, and assisting in the development of building sustainability policies.

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What qualifications are needed for the Sustainability Counsel position at the New York City Department of Buildings?

To qualify for the Sustainability Counsel position, one must be admitted to the New York State Bar with either one year of satisfactory legal experience or six months of service as an Agency Attorney Intern. Additional requirements may include specific years of experience depending on the assignment level, reflecting knowledge in areas related to sustainable law.

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Is remote work an option for the Sustainability Counsel role at the New York City Department of Buildings?

Yes, the Sustainability Counsel position may offer the possibility of remote work up to two days per week in accordance with the Remote Work Pilot Program, providing flexibility while you help advance the city’s climate policies.

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How does the Sustainability Counsel contribute to the climate goals of New York City?

The Sustainability Counsel plays a crucial role in supporting New York City's climate goals by developing and implementing legal frameworks around sustainable building practices, contributing to policy initiatives that aim to reduce emissions and promoting advancements in energy efficiency and renewable energy within the city's largest buildings.

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What is the salary range for the Sustainability Counsel position at the New York City Department of Buildings?

As of April 18, 2025, the salary range for the Sustainability Counsel position will increase to between $73,476 and $84,498 due to a collective bargaining increase, making this an attractive opportunity for legal professionals in the field of sustainability.

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Common Interview Questions for Sustainability Counsel
Can you describe your experience with legal issues related to sustainable buildings?

In answering this question, emphasize any direct legal experience you have with building regulations, energy efficiency laws, or renewable energy policies. Use specific examples to illustrate how you navigated these issues and the outcomes of your efforts.

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What do you believe are the most pressing legal challenges facing sustainability efforts in urban areas?

Highlight your understanding of the complexities of urban sustainability, discussing issues like regulatory compliance, environmental justice, and balancing development with conservation. Draw from current events or case studies to make your response relevant.

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How would you approach drafting a new regulation for energy efficiency in buildings?

Discuss your research methods, including how you would gather stakeholder input and analyze existing regulations. Highlight the importance of ensuring that any new regulation balances environmental goals with practicality for building owners.

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What role does collaboration play in the Sustainability Counsel position?

Emphasize the importance of teamwork in legal roles, especially for environmental policy work. Share examples of how you have successfully collaborated with other legal and policy experts to achieve common goals.

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How do you stay informed about changes in environmental law and policy?

Mention specific resources, such as legal journals, industry conferences, or environmental organizations that you follow. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning in this rapidly evolving field.

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Describe a successful project you were involved in that advanced sustainability goals.

Provide a concrete example that illustrates your skills and contributions. Discuss your role, the challenges faced, the collaborative aspects, and the positive outcomes achieved as a result of your efforts.

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Why do you want to work for the New York City Department of Buildings?

Explain your passion for urban sustainability and how you align with the values and mission of the Department of Buildings. Share specific examples of projects or initiatives that excite you.

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What skills do you feel are most important for a Sustainability Counsel?

Discuss skills like legal analysis, policy development, negotiation, communication, and project management while relating them to the unique challenges of sustainability work.

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How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within a project team?

Describe your conflict resolution approach, emphasizing open communication, active listening, and seeking compromises. Use an example if possible to demonstrate your effective handling of disagreements.

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What trends do you see shaping the future of sustainability in law?

Discuss emerging trends such as climate litigation, the increasing focus on environmental justice, and the role of technology in sustainable practices. Make predictions based on your observations and research.

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Our Mission To work to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality-of-life of New York City’s diverse older adults, and for the support of their caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. Strategic Goals To foster independence...

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
March 29, 2025

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