Careers

Experienced Electric Regulatory Associate

Van Ness Feldman seeks an experienced associate to join our national electric practice representing investor-owned utilities, public power utilities, developers, and power marketers in either our Seattle or Washington D.C. offices. The ideal candidate has 4+ years of electric regulatory experience (state or federal) and an aptitude for detailed work on electric regulatory and contract matters.

In addition to joining a premiere national and regional energy practice, candidates will be part of a team that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance through a 1700 annual billable hour requirement (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying pro bono or business development activities). The Firm rewards associates that exceed the target through generous bonuses. The Firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support for one another. A focus on professional development is central, including regular feedback and mentoring. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to what we consider a unique and rewarding Firm culture.

Desired skills and qualifications include:

• Strong analytical research and writing skills;
• Familiarity with the electric power industry;
• Exceptional communication skills;
• Experience Interpreting and applying statutes and regulations;
• Drafting and interpreting contracts;
• Experience before state utility commissions or federal and state courts on energy regulatory matters, including drafting pleadings, testimony or tariffs is a plus.

The Firm operates in a hybrid work environment. Please send confidential inquiries to slr@vnf.com

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The starting annual base salary based on 4 or more years of practice is $185,000-$205,000, depending on experience. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes bonuses for which associates are eligible when they meet or exceed the annual billable hour target.

Land Use/Municipal Attorney(s)

The Seattle office seeks an experienced attorney to join our nationally-ranked, preeminent land use practice in Seattle. We are seeking a mid-level attorney with 4+ years’ experience in land use, municipal, or aligned practice areas. We are also interested in Of Counsel or Lateral Partner candidates.

The ideal candidate has experience in the interpretation, compliance, and defense of actions under Washington State's planning and land use statutes including the Growth Management Act (GMA), Planning Enabling Act, Local Project Review Statute (ch. 36.70B RCW), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA), as well as other state regulations governing development, and accompanying environmental review pursuant to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). We prefer the candidate have strong experience representing clients in local and state administrative proceedings, including before Hearing Examiners, City and County Councils, the Shorelines Hearings Board, Pollution Control Hearings Board, Growth Management Hearings Board and in related judicial appeals, including appeals pursuant to the Administrative Procedures Act and the Land Use Petition Act.

In addition to joining our national and regional land use team, the candidate will be part of a Firm that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance. With a 1,700 annual billable hour requirement, (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying pro bono or business development activities), attorneys are encouraged to work hard while cultivating their passions outside the office. The Firm rewards associates who exceed the target with a generous bonus. The Firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support of one another. A focus on professional development is central, which includes regular feedback and training opportunities to enhance professional growth. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to our unique and rewarding Firm culture.

Confidential inquiries can be sent to recruiting@vnf.com or apply here

The Firm provides a hybrid work environment.

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The estimated salary range for a 4+ year associate is $185,000 to $205,000. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes a generous bonus when the annual billable hour target is exceeded. For Of Counsel and Partner candidates, compensation is based on a range of factors DOE.

Real Estate Associate

Van Ness Feldman is seeking an experienced real estate attorney to join our Seattle team. The ideal candidate has 5+ years of substantive experience in commercial, industrial, and residential development, including drafting and negotiating complex documents related to the acquisition and disposition of property, and financing / loan transactions. Candidate should have experience coordinating due diligence reviews (including title and survey) and closings.

We are looking for someone who is team-oriented with strong written and oral communication skills. The ideal candidate should display passion for working hard, take initiative in a fast-paced environment with motivated and collegial colleagues, and enjoy being part of a collaborative and diverse culture that supports our firm values.

Skills and Qualifications Include:

• Representing buyers, sellers, and developers in transactions involving all sizes and types of real estate transactions;
• Performing and coordinating due diligence in the acquisition and financing of real estate for investment, development, occupancy, sales, leasing, and collateralization;
• Representing clients in negotiating and closing on acquisition financing, construction financing, and permanent financing;
• Assisting and coordinating with clients in working with local city and state officials across the country with respect to compliance matters related to the development, redevelopment, and use of property.
• The ideal candidate will have outstanding academic credentials, a strong work ethic, a logical and analytical thought process, excellent organizational, drafting, writing and research skills, as well as the ability to establish strong client and peer relationships.

Candidates will be part of a team that is committed to accommodating a healthy work/life balance. With a 1700 annual billable hour requirement, (of which up to 100 hours can be qualifying nonbillable activities), attorneys are encouraged to work hard while cultivating their passions outside the office. The firm rewards associates that exceed the target through generous bonuses. The firm also offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities. The culture at VNF relies on mutual respect, appreciation, and support for one another. A focus on professional development is central, including regular feedback and input on how our team can improve. VNF seeks individuals who share this approach and bring a collaborative mindset to what we consider a unique and rewarding firm culture.

Please send cover letter and resume to recruiting@vnf.com

The Firm operates in a hybrid work environment.

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The starting annual base salary based on 4 or more years of practice is $185,000-$205,000, depending on experience. In addition to base salary, total compensation includes bonuses for which associates are eligible when they meet or exceed the annual billable hour target.

Recruitment for our 2026 Summer Associate class has concluded.

Van Ness Feldman’s Summer Associate Program is designed to provide law students with diverse opportunities to develop, challenge, and broaden their skills while contributing to the innovative services and counsel delivered to our clients. Summer Associates join Van Ness Feldman’s team of attorneys to provide nationally recognized legal counsel, thought leadership, and policy strategy to clients navigating the complex intersection between business and government.

The firm seeks accomplished, well-rounded, and motivated law students with a demonstrated interest in our core areas of practice. With professionals in Washington D.C., Seattle, the Bay Area, Houston, and Louisiana, we are renowned for providing strategic business advice, legislative and policy advocacy, legal and regulatory compliance counsel, representation in administrative proceedings and litigation, and support for project development, permitting, and transactions in the inter-related areas of energy, natural resources, environmental, real estate/land use, infrastructure, and government relations.

We foster an environment that is uniquely collaborative, rewarding and, we believe, truly different from our competitors. Our team is committed to the development and advancement of our summer associates through challenging assignments, training and mentoring programs, and networking opportunities to help students launch their career.

High academic credentials, journal/moot court experience, a growth mindset, and a great sense of humor required. We look forward to learning more about you and discussing how the Van Ness Feldman family of professionals can be part of your future.

For additional questions regarding our firm, the summer associate program, or our recruiting process, please email recruiting@vnf.com.  

Senior Manager/Director of Professional Development & Talent

Washington, DC

Van Ness Feldman is a nationally recognized law firm focused on energy, environmental, and natural resources law and policy. Home to 100 attorneys and policy professionals, the Firm has offices in Washington, DC; Seattle; the Bay Area; Houston; and Louisiana. For nearly 50 years, the Firm has provided strategic business advice, legislative and policy advocacy, legal and regulatory compliance counsel, representation in administrative proceedings and litigation, and support for project development, permitting, and transactions.

Van Ness Feldman seeks a Senior Manager/Director of Professional Development & Talent to play a critical role in supporting the Firm's efforts to attract, develop, and retain a top-tier legal and policy team, which includes attorneys, policy professionals, and other specialists such as paralegals, energy analysts, and litigation and administrative support. This position is central to building a dynamic, inclusive, and high-performing team across all functions of the Firm. A minimum of 5-10 years in law firm recruitment or law school career services experience, including all aspects of the attorney recruitment process, is required. A bachelor's degree is required, and a Master's or JD is preferred.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Talent Acquisition & Lateral Hiring

• Design and manage full life-cycle recruitment for attorneys, policy professionals, and other timekeepers.
• Develop strong relationships with law schools, professional networks, and search firms.
• Oversee lateral hiring campaigns in collaboration with the Firm and Practice Group Leaders.
• Develop and implement competitive timekeeper compensation strategies.

Professional Development & Utilization

• Identify, develop, and execute training and professional development programs that support the professionals at the Firm, working collaboratively with Firm leadership.
• Work with Practice Group Leaders to identify support needs, utilization gaps, and recruiting strategies.
• Administer and facilitate the timekeeper performance review process, including materials preparation, facilitation, and implementation.
• Create individualized development plans for each timekeeper and monitor performance.
• Oversee and enhance mentoring, onboarding, and integration programs.

Strategy, Pricing, & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Advise Firm leadership related to workforce planning, timekeeper professional development, and retention; and work closely with timekeepers to enhance marketability.
• Create programs that support timekeeper professional development and are responsive to relevant industry trends (both in the legal industry and our clients' industries).
• Manage initiatives to enhance workplace inclusivity.
• Work with the pro bono coordinator to develop and foster relationships with legal aid services and nonprofit organizations needing legal services.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Professional Development: 5-10+ years of experience in timekeeper professional development, including core competencies, program design, and career progression.
• Project Management: Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects, perform well under pressure, and meet deadlines.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills for engaging with various stakeholders.
• Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and judgment skills for forming sound conclusions independently.
• Professionalism: Demonstrated executive presence, tenacity, integrity, and professionalism.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills for working effectively in a consensus-driven organization.
• Work Ethic: Strong work ethic and willingness to take on a variety of assignments.
• Talent Management: Proven tenure and experience in retaining, developing, and motivating professionals.
• Industry Knowledge: Working knowledge of best practices and trends in employee engagement, retention, training, and professional development.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with law firm tools and advanced proficiency in virtual platforms and Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Aderant, iManage, TRE AI, ADP Workforce Now).

Van Ness Feldman is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable laws, the Firm prohibits discrimination against any applicant based on any legally-recognized basis. The Firm has a policy of positive action to ensure the fulfillment of our commitment to an inclusive and equitable workplace.

Salary range: $140,000 to $170,000, Senior Manager; $170,000 to $200,000, Director; salary to be commensurate with candidate's prior and relevant experience and may fall outside the range based on other reasons and individual circumstances.

Benefits include health, dental, 401(k), and a profit-sharing plan. Please provide your cover letter and resume to recruiting@vnf.com by October 15, 2025.

HR Manager

Van Ness Feldman is a nationally recognized law firm focused on energy, environmental, and natural resources law and policy. With offices in Washington DC, Seattle, the Bay Area, Houston, and Louisiana, the firm has nearly 50 years’ experience providing strategic business advice, legislative and policy advocacy, legal and regulatory compliance counsel, representation in administrative proceedings and litigation, and support for project development, permitting, and transactions.

We are seeking an experienced Human Resources Manager to partner with the Director of Human Resources in leading key HR functions for the Firm. The Human Resources Manager will assist with recruitment, onboarding and offboarding, employee engagement, performance and talent management, benefits and compensation, HR technology, and payroll support.

The ideal candidate will bring at least 7 years of progressive HR experience – preferably in a law -- firm along with strong knowledge of HR best practices and HRIS systems. They will have excellent organization, oral/written communication, and interpersonal skills to interact with all levels of Firm employees and external entities. Must have the ability to prioritize and manage multiple assignments simultaneously with attention to detail and deadlines.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

"Essential functions" refer to the core job duties required of the Human Resources Manager.

Working with the Director of Human Resources, the Human Resources Manager will:

Recruitment and Onboarding:

• Oversee all phases of recruitment and onboarding for firm staff.
• Create job descriptions, post openings, screen applicants, offer letters, and conduct interviews.
• Manage ADP's Recruiting module to streamline hiring.

Employee Relations and Engagement:

• Offer support for employee relations and help with investigations.
• Create programs to boost engagement, inclusion, and performance.
• Conduct exit interviews, monitor departure patterns, and suggest solutions for improving workplace policies and morale.

Performance & Talent Management

• Facilitate performance reviews and talent development.
• Identify training needs and facilitate professional growth.
• Leverage Microsoft Copilot and Generative AI to create materials, draft communications, and analyze feedback.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Assist in the design, implementation, and administration of the Firm’s benefits, total reward strategies, and retirement program to remain competitive and support employee satisfaction.
• Lead the annual open enrollment process.
• Oversee leave programs (FMLA, ADA, Disability), and wellness initiatives for all employees.
• Complete salary surveys.

Compliance and Policy:

• Maintain compliance with all federal, state and local labor laws and regulations including 5500 filings, nondiscrimination testing, EEO, ACA, HIPPA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, wage & hour, etc.).
• Maintain compliance with firm policies.
• Developing and updating of HR policies, procedures, and best practices tailored to the legal industry.
• Handle all regulatory reporting and compliance including EEO-1, OSHA, ACA, Medicare, etc.
• Review and update HR policies to the employee handbook, and standard operating procedures, leveraging Microsoft Copilot for drafting and formatting.

HR Technology, Automation, and Payroll:

• Maintain and optimize ADP Workforce Now as the primary HRIS platform.
• Serve as backup for payroll administration utilizing ADP Workforce Now.
• Collaborate with IT to identify opportunities for process automation, using Microsoft tools and HRIS functionality.

General Duties:

• Perform other duties as assigned.

ATTENDANCE AND HOURS

This position is designated as hybrid and requires a minimum of three days per week in the office.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management or Business Administration required; Master’s degree or PHR/SPHR/SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP certification preferred. Minimum 7–10 years of progressive HR experience, ideally in a law firm. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.

If you're interested, please apply at this link. 

Van Ness Feldman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and profit sharing.

Van Ness Feldman enthusiastically extends an equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, military status, physical disability, or any similarly protected status. The firm has a policy of positive action to ensure the fulfillment of our commitment to a diverse and equitable workplace.

This link leads to the machine-readable files that are made available in response to the federal Transparency in Coverage Rule and includes negotiated service rates and out-of-network allowed amounts between health plans and healthcare providers. The machine-readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators, and application developers to more easily access and analyze data.