A highly respected full-service law firm in Irvine, CA, is seeking a seasoned Land Use Associate Attorney to join its expanding team. This role is ideal for a knowledgeable and motivated attorney who can provide strategic legal counsel to real estate developers, municipalities, and corporate clients. The Associate will handle complex land use matters involving zoning, entitlements, environmental review, and administrative litigation. The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is ready to contribute to high-level projects with minimal supervision.

Salary Range: $140,000 – $180,000 / year DOE

Land Use Associate Attorney Responsibilities:

• Advise clients on zoning, permitting, CEQA/NEPA compliance, and land use regulations
• Draft and negotiate development agreements, easements, and entitlement documents
• Conduct due diligence, environmental risk assessments, and title/zoning analysis
• Prepare and submit entitlement applications to local and state agencies
• Represent clients in public hearings before planning commissions, councils, and boards
• Collaborate with environmental specialists, planners, and consultants to align legal and development strategies
• Litigate land use disputes, including CEQA lawsuits and administrative writs
• Draft motions, legal memoranda, pleadings, and litigation materials
• Stay updated on legal developments affecting land use, zoning, and environmental law
• Mentor junior team members and support senior attorneys on complex matters
• Participate in the firm’s pro bono and community engagement initiatives

Land Use Associate Attorney Requirements:

• J.D. and active California Bar membership in good standing
• 5+ years of land use transactional and/or litigation experience
• Strong knowledge of CEQA, NEPA, zoning laws, and general planning
• Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing skills
• Experience handling entitlement processes, development agreements, and permitting
• Skilled in public speaking and communicating complex legal matters to non-lawyers
• Proven ability to manage projects and deadlines independently
• Prior experience representing clients at administrative hearings is a plus
• Familiarity with court filing systems is preferred
• Enthusiasm for mentorship, client development, and long-term growth

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary
• Discretionary and merit-based bonuses
• Hybrid
• Unlimited PTO
• 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive medical benefits
• 401(k)
• Newly renovated office with communal lounges, team lunches, and regular client events

Join a close-knit, community-driven legal team committed to mentorship, professional growth, and legal excellence. Apply now!

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