Staff Attorney - Land Use Review Board

Overview

The Vermont Land Use Review Board (LURB or the Board) has an exempt, full-time staff attorney opening. The LURB is an independent entity in state government that oversees the administration of Act 250, Vermont's land use and development law. Act 250 was enacted by the Vermont legislature in 1970 to protect the environment in balance with sustainable development. In 2024, Act 250 was amended by Act 181, which seated a new 5-member, full-time professional board to modernize Act 250 to a location-based jurisdiction. The law establishes standards and priorities for environmental and aesthetic protections and is responsible for helping Vermont retain its rural character, preserve the natural environment, and support the state's environmental diversity, which foster distinctive, attractive communities and a strong sense of place.

The staff attorney reports to the General Counsel and will work closely with the General Counsel and other staff attorneys, the Board, regional district environmental commissions and coordinators, enforcement staff, and other state agencies.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel to the Board, staff, and to the nine district environmental commissions in permitting proceedings throughout the state.
• Fairly and equitably enforce Act 250 permits through administrative action and before the Environmental Division of Vermont Superior Court.
• Represent the Board in Act 250 permit appeals before the Environmental Division.
• Participate in rule-making proceedings and provide input on pending legislation.

Work Environment

This dynamic position requires balancing long-term projects with arising issues that require a more immediate response. Candidates must be effective time managers and experienced at balancing multiple projects and shifting priorities. The successful candidate will be a team player with excellent oral and written communication skills who can work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

The position is based out of the LURB's historic office building in Montpelier, with opportunities for telework and hybrid work arrangements within the Governor's return-to-office guidelines.

Who May Apply

This position, Staff Attorney - Land Use Review Board (Job Requisition #53557) , is open to all State employees and external applicants.

Please apply by submitting a letter of interest, resume, references, and a writing sample to SuccessFactors. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If you would like more information about this position, please contact jenny.ronis@vermont.gov. Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting. Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

Compensation

This Staff Attorney position is an exempt full-time position. Salary and benefits will be based upon qualifications and experience in accordance with the State of Vermont Attorney Pay Plan.

Minimum Qualifications

The individual must be a member of the Vermont bar in good standing (or eligible to waive in), plus 0-2 years of lawyer experience relevant to the position.

Preferred Qualifications

Environmental and / or land use law experience. Three or more years of relevant legal experience, including litigation experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical or mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and / or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.

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