Job Description
Job DescriptionLand Use Associate Attorney
Century City (Los Angeles), CA
Direct Counsel is seeking a Land Use Associate to join a premier California-based law firm with a highly regarded land use, environmental, and real estate practice.
This opportunity is ideal for a junior-to-mid-level associate interested in working on sophisticated development projects and helping guide clients through California's complex land use, entitlement, environmental review, and regulatory approval processes.
About the Role
The firm's Land Use practice represents developers, property owners, investors, and other stakeholders on a broad range of development and regulatory matters throughout California.
Associates in this role will work closely with experienced attorneys on matters involving:
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Land use due diligence and project feasibility analysis
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Entitlement and permitting processes
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Environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
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Natural resources and environmental regulatory compliance
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Development approvals and agency coordination
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Project planning and implementation strategies
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Regulatory and governmental approvals for commercial, residential, mixed-use, and infrastructure projects
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Land use and environmental risk assessment
The practice provides attorneys with the opportunity to become deeply involved in significant development projects from initial planning through final approvals.
Qualifications
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J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
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Approximately 2–3 years of relevant legal experience.
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Experience handling land use, zoning, environmental, or natural resources matters.
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Experience with due diligence, entitlements, and environmental review under CEQA.
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Familiarity with California land use regulations and development approval processes.
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Land use or CEQA litigation experience is a plus but not required.
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Excellent analytical, research, writing, and communication skills.
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Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail.
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Collaborative, team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently when needed.
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Admission to the California State Bar is required.
Why Consider This Opportunity
This position offers the opportunity to work closely with a highly respected team advising clients on some of California's most significant development projects.
Attorneys in this practice benefit from:
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Direct involvement in complex and high-profile development matters.
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Meaningful responsibility and client interaction early in their careers.
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Exposure to sophisticated land use, environmental, and regulatory issues.
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Close mentorship from experienced practitioners.
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A collaborative and entrepreneurial work environment.
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Strong opportunities for long-term professional growth and advancement.
Compensation & Benefits
Expected annual base salary ranges from $225,000 – $250,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.
The firm also offers a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and a supportive culture focused on attorney growth and success.
This is an outstanding opportunity for a land use attorney seeking sophisticated entitlement and environmental work while building a long-term practice within one of California's leading real estate and development-focused law firms.