Counsel

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world's leading conservation organizations, dedicated to preserving the natural world and addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a diverse workforce of more than 5,000 employees. The organization focuses on various conservation efforts, including wildlife protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable resource management, aiming to create a world where people and nature thrive together.

Job Overview:
The Counsel position at WWF is designed for a bilingual (Spanish/English) junior to mid-level attorney who is passionate about conservation and possesses strong project management skills. This role involves providing legal services on a wide range of complex matters, particularly focusing on employment issues, compliance, contract negotiation, and other legal challenges affecting WWF's operations in the United States and Latin America. The Counsel will collaborate closely with the Deputy General Counsel and other team members to ensure that all legal transactions and activities align with the organization's mission and governance requirements. The position also requires the Counsel to apply analytical and risk management skills to effectively serve the organization's needs, while clearly articulating complex legal concepts to various stakeholders, including project managers and senior business unit managers.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsel will be responsible for providing sound and constructive legal advice on various issues to colleagues in both the U.S. and international offices supported by WWF-US. Key responsibilities include authoring clear and precise legal documents, developing processes and templates to streamline legal support, reviewing and negotiating contracts, vendor agreements, grant agreements, and other legal documents. The Counsel will also advise on compliance, amendments, terminations, and disputes related to contracts. Staying informed about proposed legislation and regulations impacting the organization, particularly U.S. and international employment laws, is crucial. Additionally, the Counsel will address legal needs assigned by the manager and perform other duties as required, demonstrating excellent professional judgment and risk assessment skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Law Degree and be a member of the D.C. bar (or another bar with the ability to become a member of the D.C. bar). Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish, both written and spoken, is required. Applicants should have 3-6 years of experience in the legal profession, with a focus on relevant practice areas. Proven experience in analyzing risks and providing legal advice, including drafting legal documents, is essential. Strong project management skills and an interest in employment law, contracts, and investigations are also necessary. Effective writing and communication skills, along with solid legal research and analysis capabilities, are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school is required for this position. Candidates must also be a member of the D.C. bar or have the ability to become a member of the D.C. bar, ensuring they are legally qualified to practice law in the jurisdiction.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have between 3 to 6 years of experience in the legal field, with a focus on areas relevant to the position such as employment law, contract negotiation, and compliance. Experience in providing legal advice and drafting legal documents is essential, as well as a demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and legal matters effectively.

Languages:
Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as the Counsel will be working with diverse teams and stakeholders in both the U.S. and Latin America. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered a plus, but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Washington, DC, and follows a hybrid work schedule, requiring employees to be in the office two days a week. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. A cover letter is required as part of the application process, where candidates should explain how their experience or interests make them suitable for the role. The salary range for this position is between $100,000 and $147,70

• WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of various protected characteristics.