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Sustainability Enforcement Attorney - job 2 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 and enforcing New York City’s ground-breaking climate policies, including Local Law 97, which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions from the city’s largest buildings. 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 DOB’s Bureau of Sustainability team and make a real difference.

Under general supervision, with latitude for independent and unreviewed action and decision, the Enforcement Attorney will work on enforcement cases and projects with Sustainability Bureau staff, as well as other units in the agency.

Duties include but are not limited to:
- Performing all areas of case management, including initial and continuing research, designing an appropriate legal strategy, developing and overseeing a case tracking system, managing pre-trial settlement agreements, and preparing and prosecuting cases at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH).
- Preparing reports and related analyses on cases and/or enforcement processes.
- Supporting collection of penalties and fines assessed.
- Developing and advancing mediated resolutions.
- Working with Sustainability Bureau staff to promote effective enforcement and compliance.
- Conducting legal research and writing legal memoranda.
- Assisting the Senior Sustainability Enforcement Counsel with supervision and monitoring workflow.
- May provide guidance, training, and support to attorneys and attorney internes.
- Completing 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.

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

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$80000K
$120000K

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What You Should Know About Sustainability Enforcement Attorney, City of New York

Are you passionate about fighting climate change and looking to make a real impact? Join the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) as a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney! In this exciting role, you’ll play a vital part in enforcing the city's innovative climate policies, including the landmark Local Law 97, which aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions from the largest buildings in New York City. With almost three-quarters of these emissions stemming from buildings, your work will focus on energy efficiency, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting sustainable practices. As part of the Bureau of Sustainability team, you will manage enforcement cases and collaborate with various departments to ensure compliance. Your responsibilities will include devising legal strategies, overseeing case tracking systems, managing settlement agreements, preparing cases for administrative hearings, conducting thorough legal research, and even mentoring fellow staff. You will be a key player in collecting penalties and advancing mediated resolutions that uphold these essential climate goals. Plus, this position offers the flexibility of remote work up to two days a week. If you are looking to make a difference while furthering your legal career in an inclusive and diverse environment, apply today and be part of making New York City a safer, healthier, and more sustainable place to live!

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

At the New York City Department of Buildings, a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney plays a crucial role in case management, including researching and developing legal strategies tailored to climate policy enforcement. Responsibilities also encompass managing settlement agreements, preparing cases for OATH hearings, and supporting the collection of assessed penalties, all aimed at enhancing the city’s sustainability efforts.

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What qualifications are required to become a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney in New York City?

To qualify as a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney at the New York City Department of Buildings, candidates must be admitted to the New York State Bar and have legal experience post-admission. A minimum of one year of relevant experience is preferred, or candidates can qualify with six months of service as an Agency Attorney Intern. Maintaining good standing as a bar member is crucial for continued employment.

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Is remote work an option for the Sustainability Enforcement Attorney position at DOB?

Yes, the Sustainability Enforcement Attorney position at the New York City Department of Buildings offers flexibility for remote work, allowing up to two days per week in accordance with the Remote Work Pilot Program, making it a great fit for those seeking work-life balance while driving sustainable change.

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What kind of legal strategies will a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney use at DOB?

A Sustainability Enforcement Attorney at the New York City Department of Buildings will utilize various legal strategies including case management techniques, settlement negotiation, and drafting legal memoranda. This involves identifying compliance issues within sustainability directives and ensuring effective enforcement of the city’s climate policies.

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How does the Sustainability Enforcement Attorney contribute to New York City's climate goals?

The Sustainability Enforcement Attorney contributes significantly to New York City's climate goals by ensuring compliance with Local Law 97, managing enforcement cases, and working alongside stakeholders to promote sustainable practices. Your efforts will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings, thereby making a positive impact on air quality and public health.

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Common Interview Questions for Sustainability Enforcement Attorney
How do you approach case management as a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney?

When discussing your approach to case management during the interview, emphasize your organizational skills and strategic planning. Mention techniques like developing case tracking systems and the importance of continual legal research to craft effective legal strategies.

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What experience do you have with enforcing compliance regulations?

Share relevant experiences where you successfully enforced compliance, detailing your role in developing legal strategies, managing settlement agreements, and collaborating with other agencies or departments to achieve compliance outcomes.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a situation where you had to negotiate a settlement.

Explain a specific instance of negotiation, focusing on your preparation and strategy. Highlight your ability to communicate clearly, advocate for sustainability goals, and achieve a resolution that satisfies both legal requirements and community interests.

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What is your knowledge of Local Law 97?

Discuss your understanding of Local Law 97, including its goals, implications for the city’s buildings, and the importance of legal enforcement in making its targets achievable. Show your keen interest in climate policy and how it affects legal frameworks.

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How would you handle complex legal research related to sustainability laws?

You can mention your research process, including utilizing legal databases, analyzing case law, and synthesizing findings to inform your strategies. Highlight your ability to translate complex legal jargon into actionable insights for various stakeholders.

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What strategies do you use for effective communication within a team?

Discuss how you promote open communication and collaboration, perhaps by using tools for project management or scheduling regular check-ins to ensure all team members are informed and aligned on sustainability goals.

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How do you stay updated on developments in sustainability law?

Mention attending workshops, following relevant publications, and participating in professional organizations. Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and staying informed about emerging trends and legal changes related to sustainability.

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Can you give an example of a successful legal outcome you've achieved?

Share a case where your contributions led to a successful legal resolution, highlighting the impact it had on compliance or sustainability initiatives, and emphasizing the skills and strategies you applied throughout the process.

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What challenges do you foresee in enforcing sustainability laws?

Recognize potential challenges like resistance to compliance, legal ambiguities, or resource limitations. Discuss how you would approach these issues through strategic communication, education, and collaboration with other departments or stakeholders.

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Why do you want to work as a Sustainability Enforcement Attorney for the NYC Department of Buildings?

Express your passion for environmental advocacy and your alignment with the city’s commitment to sustainability. Share how your experience and skills are a great match for contributing to the mission of improving New York City’s environmental footprint.

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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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