Senior Staff Attorney

The Senior Staff Attorney provides legal advice and support related to the operation of Farm Sanctuary’s New York and California facilities and the organization’s efforts to transition agriculture to a just and sustainable system. The position reports to the General Counsel.

Responsibilities:

• Provide legal guidance on the application and maintenance of all permits and licenses needed to operate Farm Sanctuary’s New York and California facilities, including those applicable to farm animal sanctuaries, bed and breakfasts, educational tours and events, gift shops, and other Farm Sanctuary programs
• Communicate with outside counsel, consultants, and regulators to implement Farm Sanctuary’s land use plans and activities
• Advise on employment law, policies, and personnel matters
• Assist General Counsel and Chief Financial Officer in ensuring accurate and up-to-date valuations of all physical assets
• Provide legal guidance on Farm Sanctuary’s agriculture transition efforts, including researching and advising on the creation of a land grant trust or other vehicle to support land access for plant-based farmers of color
• Participate in brainstorming and research to support Farm Sanctuary’s strategic litigation and legislative advocacy efforts, and prepare memoranda as requested
• Participate in the development and implementation of policies and procedures to more effectively manage organizational risk
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualification:

• Juris Doctor with a preferred minimum of 5-8 years’ experience in the practice of law
• Status as a member in good standing of the bar in the District of Columbia or any state of the United States
• Ability to think strategically and creatively, and to proactively identify and resolve legal and business issues
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment, handling varied tasks simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines
• Proven excellent legal research and writing skills
• Proven excellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated interest in farm animal protection and knowledge and support of the mission and campaigns of Farm Sanctuary
• Understanding of nonprofit sector and related legal issues strongly preferred

Job Specifications:

• Full time, at will, exempt position
• Remote position in Washington, DC, or New York, NY
• Requires schedule flexibility, including weekend and evening hours as needed
• Salary commensurate with experience
• Competitive benefits package, including paid holidays; personal days; vacation and sick leave; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 403(b) plan; flexible spending accounts; and long-term disability insurance

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Farm Sanctuary is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, or age.