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Sustainability Counsel - job 2 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.

Average salary estimate

$82500 / YEARLY (est.)
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$70000K
$95000K

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

Join the New York City Department of Buildings as a Sustainability Counsel and help shape the future of climate policy in one of the world's most dynamic cities! You will play an essential role in implementing New York's groundbreaking climate initiatives, such as Local Law 97, aimed at significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from large buildings. In this position, you'll work closely with the Bureau of Sustainability, engaging in vital projects that enhance building energy efficiency and promote cutting-edge renewable energy solutions. Your responsibilities will include providing legal advice on sustainability matters, conducting in-depth legal and policy research, and drafting critical regulations and policy documents. By collaborating with agency colleagues and stakeholders, you will directly contribute to developing innovative policies that align with New York City’s ambitious climate goals. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about environmental law and sustainability. The role offers flexibility, with the possibility of remote work for up to two days a week. If you’re ready to make a real difference in the fight against climate change while advancing your legal career, we want to hear from you!

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

As a Sustainability Counsel with the New York City Department of Buildings, your primary responsibilities include providing legal guidance on sustainable practices, conducting thorough legal and policy research, and analyzing relevant statutes and regulations. You will draft and edit various legal and policy documents while collaborating with the Bureau of Sustainability team to advance initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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What qualifications are necessary for the Sustainability Counsel position at the Department of Buildings?

To qualify for the Sustainability Counsel position at the New York City Department of Buildings, you must be admitted to the New York State Bar. Additionally, candidates should either have one year of relevant legal experience or six months of satisfactory service as an Agency Attorney Intern. Advanced levels in the position require more legal experience related to sustainability and building policies.

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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 at the New York City Department of Buildings allows for remote work up to two days a week, as part of their Remote Work Pilot Program, offering flexibility while you contribute to crucial sustainability initiatives.

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What types of projects might a Sustainability Counsel expect to work on at the Department of Buildings?

In the role of Sustainability Counsel, you can expect to work on projects such as developing regulations to enforce energy efficiency standards, drafting legislation related to sustainability initiatives, and participating in special projects focused on innovative renewable energy solutions that support New York City's climate policy ambitions.

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How does the Sustainability Counsel role contribute to New York City's climate goals?

The Sustainability Counsel plays a crucial role in advancing New York City's climate goals by providing legal frameworks that support policy development, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector, and ensuring compliance with city regulations. Your efforts directly impact the city's commitment to becoming a leader in sustainability.

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Common Interview Questions for Sustainability Counsel
Can you explain your experience with sustainability-related legal issues?

While responding, highlight specific instances where you handled sustainability-related legal matters, such as advising on energy efficiency regulations or engaging in policy drafting. This will showcase your expertise in the relevant legal fields.

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What motivates you to work in sustainability law?

Articulate your passion for environmental conservation and how it aligns with your values. Mention experiences that galvanized your interest in sustainability and legal work, demonstrating your commitment to the cause.

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How do you stay updated on climate change legislation?

Discuss your strategies for keeping current with climate law, such as subscribing to legal newsletters, attending relevant seminars, or participating in professional networks focused on environmental law. This illustrates your dedication to lifelong learning.

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Describe a challenging legal problem you've solved related to sustainability.

Provide a specific example where you navigated a complex legal situation concerning sustainability. Outline the steps you took to address the issue, showcasing your problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.

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What would you say are the biggest challenges facing sustainability policies today?

Consider discussing issues like regulatory compliance, public engagement, or balancing economic growth with environmental protection. Articulating these challenges shows your awareness of broader trends in sustainability law.

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How do you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams?

Share experiences where you successfully worked with various stakeholders, such as engineers, policymakers, or community organizations, to develop legal strategies for sustainability projects. Emphasize teamwork and communication as critical aspects of your approach.

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What legal research methods do you find most effective?

Explain your preferred research tools, databases, and methodologies for legal research. This could include using online legal research services or analyzing case law that impacts sustainability, illustrating your analytical capabilities.

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How do you prioritize multiple projects with competing deadlines?

Demonstrate your organizational skills by discussing the techniques you use to manage your workload, such as creating timelines, setting milestones, or using project management tools to keep track of deadlines.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role does public policy play in shaping sustainability initiatives?

Explain your understanding of how public policy can drive sustainability initiatives. Discuss how legal frameworks influence the development of regulations and policies aimed at promoting environmental sustainability.

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

Express your admiration for the Department’s initiatives and its commitment to sustainability. Discuss how your values align with the organization's mission and your eagerness to contribute to meaningful change in New York City.

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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 24, 2025

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