Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Sustainability Counsel image - Rise Careers
Job details

Sustainability Counsel - job 1 of 2

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.

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.

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

Are you passionate about making a difference in the fight against climate change? The New York City Department of Buildings is looking for a dedicated Sustainability Counsel to join our Bureau of Sustainability team. This unique role places you at the forefront of developing and implementing New York City's innovative climate policies, such as Local Law 97, which aims to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions from the city's largest buildings. As a Sustainability Counsel, you'll be providing essential legal guidance on sustainable building initiatives, diving deep into energy efficiency, greenhouse gas reduction strategies, and advancing renewable energy solutions. Your work will include conducting thorough legal and policy research, analyzing regulations, and drafting proposed legislation and key policy documents. You'll collaborate closely with other team members and city agency colleagues, working on special projects that help drive the city’s sustainability goals forward. Plus, you can enjoy some flexibility with remote work options of up to two days a week! If you have a strong legal background and are eager to contribute to creating a safer, healthier, and more sustainable New York City, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity in the Bureau of Sustainability today.

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

As a Sustainability Counsel at the New York City Department of Buildings, you'll be tasked with providing legal advice regarding sustainable building issues, including energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction. You'll conduct comprehensive legal and policy research, draft and edit regulations, and support the development of policies aimed at enhancing building sustainability across the city.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are required to become a Sustainability Counsel for the NYC Department of Buildings?

To qualify as a Sustainability Counsel for the NYC Department of Buildings, candidates must be admitted to the New York State Bar and meet specified experience criteria, which include having at least one year of legal experience post-admission or six months of services as an Agency Attorney Intern. Maintaining good standing in the New York State Bar is also essential throughout employment.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the work environment like for a Sustainability Counsel at NYC DOB?

The work environment for a Sustainability Counsel at the NYC Department of Buildings is collaborative and dynamic, focusing on addressing critical climate policy issues. The Bureau of Sustainability emphasizes teamwork, enabling its members to actively contribute to various projects while also maintaining a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the workplace.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does remote work flexibility work for a Sustainability Counsel at NYC DOB?

The position of Sustainability Counsel at the NYC Department of Buildings may offer remote work flexibility of up to two days a week through the Remote Work Pilot Program. This allows for a balanced work-life environment while continuing to contribute effectively to the agency's goals in person and remotely.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the role of legal research in the position of Sustainability Counsel at NYC DOB?

In the role of Sustainability Counsel at the NYC Department of Buildings, legal research is crucial for supporting the Bureau of Sustainability's initiatives. You'll analyze various statutes and regulations at the federal, state, and local levels, which helps inform policy development and the drafting of legal documents critical to advancing the city's sustainability strategies.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Sustainability Counsel
Can you describe your experience with legal research related to sustainability policy?

In answering this question, highlight specific projects where you conducted legal research related to sustainability. Discuss how your findings influenced policy development or legal recommendations, demonstrating your understanding of sustainability law and your analytical skills.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you advise the Bureau of Sustainability on new regulations for energy efficiency?

When responding, talk about the importance of thorough regulatory analysis, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with existing laws. Emphasize your ability to draft clear and effective regulations that support the city's sustainability objectives while ensuring compliance with legal standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you use to stay current with changes in environmental law?

Discuss your methods for staying informed about environmental law updates, such as joining professional organizations, attending workshops, subscribing to legal journals, and networking with peers in the field of environmental and sustainability law.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you approach collaboration with other city agencies on sustainability initiatives?

Emphasize your collaborative skills and approach by discussing how you would initiate communication, identify mutual goals, and share resources among agencies to ensure that sustainability initiatives are comprehensively addressed at all levels of city government.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What has been the most challenging legal issue you faced in sustainability law, and how did you resolve it?

Talk about a specific legal challenge related to sustainability you encountered, explaining your thought process, the actions you took, and the outcome. This shows your problem-solving skills and resilience in the field.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure that your legal writing on sustainability policy is clear and actionable?

Describe your writing process, including how you break down complex legal jargon into understandable language, use clear structure and formatting, and include practical recommendations that inform decision-making.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role do you believe the law plays in combating climate change?

Clarify your view on how legal frameworks can enforce sustainability measures, promote compliance with environmental regulations, and support innovative policies. This will show your understanding of the broader implications of the law in shaping climate action.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you prioritize tasks when handling multiple legal projects simultaneously?

Explain your organizational skills by discussing your use of project management tools, setting deadlines, and assessing project priorities. This showcases your ability to manage time effectively in a high-demand environment.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your experience drafting regulations or legislation?

Share specific examples where you have drafted legislation or regulations, including the context, your approach to the task, and how you ensured compliance with legal best practices. This illustrates your practical experience with legal documentation.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Why is sustainability important to you in your legal career?

Express your passion for sustainability and how it aligns with your personal and professional values. Discuss your motivation to contribute to meaningful legal work that addresses climate change and supports sustainable development.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 2 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 13 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 13 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 8 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 7 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
YouGov Remote London, United Kingdom
Posted 2 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted yesterday
Photo of the Rise User
Weekday Remote No location specified
Posted 11 days ago

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...

3890 jobs
MATCH
VIEW MATCH
FUNDING
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
No info
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
March 25, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, New Albany just viewed Customer Success Manager at Quisitive
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed UGC Creator - USA, Female 40-50 - Contract to hire at Upwork
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Strongsville just viewed Automotive Buyer at Sonic Automotive
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Strongsville just viewed Experienced Automotive Buyer at Sonic Automotive
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Business Systems Analyst, Apps & Automations at Deel
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Findlay just viewed Marketing Analyst at ITW
R
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Marketing Lead at Redi.Health
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Associate Conversion Data Analyst at Bloomerang
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Material Buyer/Planner at Aston Carter
F
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Senior Materials Planner at Fortune Brands
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Junior Data Analyst at Arkana Laboratories
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed BI Analyst, Junior at Emi Labs
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Bellbrook just viewed Accounting Co-Op (Part-Time) at Avery Dennison
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior Compliance officer (AML) at Visa
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Amazon Expediting Fleet Specialist at MSX International
R
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Sales development representative at Remote Recruitment
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Laboratory Technologist I - 2nd Shift at Eurofins
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Independence just viewed Analyst - Customer Master Data at AECOM
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mount Vernon just viewed Assistant Buyer - Nursery. 12 Months FTC at The Very Group