Renewable Energy Development & Land Use Associate Attorney

Surf Search is seeking a Renewable Energy Development & Land Use Associate Attorney for its Southeastern law firm in locations including Charleston, SC. The role involves advising clients on land use regulations and representing developers in renewable energy projects. Candidates should have a JD, active Bar admission, and 2-4 years of relevant experience. The firm emphasizes mentorship, professional growth, and offers competitive compensation and benefits.
Renewable Energy Development & Land Use Associate Attorney

Locations: Charlotte, NC | Raleigh, NC | Columbia, SC | Charleston, SC

Are you a skilled attorney with experience in energy and environmental law looking to advance your career at a well-respected Southeastern law firm?

Our client, a prestigious Southeastern law firm, is seeking a talented Associate Attorney to join their Energy & Environmental Practice Group in Charlotte, Raleigh, Columbia, or Charleston. This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex land use, permitting, zoning, and transactional matters related to renewable energy projects for a diverse range of clients, including utilities, independent power producers, and renewable energy developers.

Candidate Profile:
• JD from a top-tier law school with a strong academic record.
• Active Bar Admission in the relevant jurisdiction.
• 2–4 years of substantive experience representing renewable energy clients in development and transactional work.
• Demonstrated experience with land use permitting, zoning, utilities commission regulatory work, and transactional work (due diligence of permits and approvals).
• Knowledge of energy project development, financing, acquisition, and sale is highly advantageous.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and client-facing skills.

Key Responsibilities:
• Advise clients on local land use regulations, permitting, and rezoning matters related to renewable energy projects.
• Represent developers, utilities, and energy companies before state and local regulatory agencies.
• Conduct due diligence on permits and approvals for energy transactions.
• Negotiate and draft agreements related to project development, financing, and acquisitions.
• Work collaboratively with attorneys across multiple practice areas, including environmental, corporate, and regulatory teams.
• Stay informed on industry trends, regulatory changes, and policy developments affecting energy and environmental law.

Why Join Us?

This position offers the opportunity to work within a highly-regarded energy and environmental practice, advising clients at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. The firm’s multidisciplinary approach allows attorneys to collaborate across practice areas, ensuring comprehensive legal solutions for clients.

The firm values mentorship and professional growth, providing a structured yet organic development program that fosters career advancement. Attorneys in this practice benefit from direct client interaction, hands-on experience, and the support of a collaborative team. The firm is committed to fostering a culture that prioritizes both professional excellence and personal well-being, ensuring attorneys have the resources to succeed.

The firm offers competitive compensation, multiple opportunities to earn bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plans, and professional development resources.

Application Requirements:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and writing sample.