Careers

Van Ness Feldman is a nationally respected law and government advocacy firm that is home to close to 150 attorneys, public policy professionals, land use planners, administrative managers, and support staff working from offices in Washington, DC, Seattle, the Bay Area, Houston, and Louisiana.

Central to our reputation as an industry leader and employer is investing in our people and preserving our unique culture which places emphasis on well-rounded individuals who are able to not only contribute in the workplace, but more importantly, who are able to serve their communities and participate with their friends and families with great care and good humor.

The work environment at the firm is challenging, rewarding, and we believe, different from our competitors. We value diverse viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds and are committed to attracting, mentoring, and retaining the best talent and supporting a culture in which all employees feel valued and empowered to grow professionally.

We are pleased that you are interested in a career at Van Ness Feldman. Please find our National Association for Law Placement (NALP) profile here and see below for more information about joining our team.

  • ELECTRIC REGULATORY - LATERAL OPPORTUNITIES

    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 - LATERAL OPPORTUNITIES

    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 - LATERAL OPPORTUNITIES

    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.

  • GOVERNMENT ADVOCACY & PUBLIC POLICY OPPORTUNITIES
  • SUMMER ASSOCIATES

    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.  

  • ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS

    Director of Technology Enablement & Research

    Washington, DC

    ABOUT THE ROLE

    We're seeking a strategic, service-oriented Director of Technology Enablement & Research to lead the Firm's technology, digital research, and information services. This senior leader will drive the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of systems and tools that empower attorneys, enhance client service, and support Firm operations.

    Working closely with Firm leadership and practice stakeholders, this role translates business needs into scalable technology and research solutions—balancing innovation with reliability, security, and operational discipline.

    This position allows for a hybrid schedule.

    RESPONSIBILITIES

    Strategic Leadership & Planning

    • Partner with Firm leaders to define and execute technology and research strategies aligned with operational and client‑service goals.
    • Develop practical, forward-looking roadmaps for technology, data, and research capabilities.
    • Evaluate emerging technologies (including AI-related tools) and digital library resources to support evolving Firm needs.

    Operational Oversight

    • Lead teams delivering daily technology, research, and information services across the Firm.
    • Ensure system availability, security, and performance, while maintaining consistent standards and procedures.
    • Manage vendor relationships, technology contracts, and service providers for cost‑effective, high‑quality outcomes.

    Technology & Change Enablement

    • Guide the evaluation, selection, and implementation of enterprise and practice‑specific systems.
    • Promote thoughtful change management, ensuring effective user training and adoption.
    • Identify opportunities for technology to enhance legal service delivery and business efficiency.

    Business Process & Continuous Improvement

    • Improve business and legal processes through automation, better use of information, and system optimization.
    • Establish service metrics and monitor performance.
    • Ensure adherence to information security, risk management, and records requirements.
    • Maintain and evolve an IT services catalog and service level metrics (ITIL/ITSM–aligned).

    Project & Administrative Management

    • Direct technology and research projects using consistent project management standards.
    • Manage budgets, capital planning, and financial decision-making.
    • Support business continuity, disaster recovery, and security initiatives.
    • Provide clear and transparent reporting, documentation, and presentations as needed.

    QUALIFICATIONS

    • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in technology, business, or related field preferred.
    • 15+ years of progressive experience in technology or information services, ideally within professional services.
    • Strong expertise in Microsoft 365, device/application management (Intune, Autopilot), cybersecurity, and industry-relevant systems.
    • Experience with security frameworks (NIST 800‑53, ISO 27001) and privacy laws (CCPA).
    • Proven leadership experience with high-performing teams and vendor partners.
    • Excellent communication and change‑leadership skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across the Firm.
    • Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and competing priorities.

    Salary range: $160,000 - $200,000 annually; salary will be commensurate with the candidate's prior and relevant experience and may fall outside the stated range based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, job-related considerations, internal equity, and market conditions.

    Benefits package: includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), and a profit-sharing plan.

    Please apply and upload your cover letter and resume here by March 2, 2026.

    Director of Professional Talent Management

    Seattle, WA; Washington, DC

    ABOUT THE ROLE

    We are seeking a dynamic Director of Professional Talent Management to lead the Firm’s efforts to attract, develop, and retain top-tier legal and policy professionals. This role is central to shaping a diverse, high-performing team and supporting the Firm’s strategic growth across all offices. The Director will oversee recruitment, hiring, onboarding, professional development, performance management, and mentoring programs while collaborating closely with Practice Group Leaders and key administrative departments.

    KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

    Talent Acquisition & Hiring

    • Lead full life-cycle recruitment for attorneys, policy professionals, and other timekeepers, including sourcing, screening, offers, and integration.
    • Build relationships with law schools, professional networks, and search firms to maintain a strong pipeline of diverse talent.
    • Reimagine the law school recruiting and Summer Associate Program with a focus on hands-on client experience, technology fluency, and professional growth.
    • Oversee lateral hiring aligned with strategic needs and develop job descriptions and compensation strategies.
    • Partner with Business Development & Marketing on employer branding and external communications.

    Professional Development

    • Serve as a trusted advisor to Firm leadership to design and implement training, development, and utilization programs.
    • Lead the performance review process for timekeepers and support individualized development plans.
    • Enhance onboarding, integration, and mentorship programs.
    • Coordinate Firmwide training programs focused on legal skills, business development, client service, and digital fluency.

    Cross-Functional Strategy & Collaboration

    • Support workforce planning, pipeline development, retention strategies, and evolving pricing models linked to talent development.
    • Monitor industry trends in AI, automation, hybrid work, and reskilling to inform Firm‑wide programming.
    • Oversee inclusion initiatives and assist in managing pro bono activities in partnership with the Firm’s pro bono coordinator.
    • Identify professional skill gaps, especially in business development, financial literacy, and technology adoption.

    QUALIFICATIONS

    • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s or JD preferred.
    • 5–10 years of experience in law firm recruitment or law school career services, including talent development and attorney lifecycle management.
    • Strong communication, analytical, and judgment skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels of the Firm.
    • Proven ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced environment.
    • Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and executive presence.
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Teams/Zoom, and law firm systems such as Aderant, iManage, and HRIS platforms.
    • This is primarily an in‑office role with periodic travel to the other Firm offices.

    Salary range: $140,000 - $200,000 annually; salary will be commensurate with the candidate's prior and relevant experience and may fall outside the stated range based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, job-related considerations, internal equity, and market conditions.

    Benefits package: includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), and a profit-sharing plan.

    Apply for the Director of Talent Management position here.

    Human Resources Manager - Benefits & Compensation

    Washington, DC

    ABOUT THE ROLE

    Van Ness Feldman is seeking an experienced Human Resources Manager with a primary focus on Benefits and Compensation to partner with the Director of Human Resources in leading the Firm’s total rewards strategy and core HR operations. This role will serve as the Firm’s subject-matter lead for employee benefits, retirement programs, compensation analysis, and regulatory compliance, while also supporting other core human resources functions across such areas as recruiting, employee relations, performance management, and HR technology initiatives.

    The ideal candidate brings 7–10 years of progressive HR experience, preferably in a law firm or professional services environment, with demonstrated expertise in benefits administration, compensation programs, and compliance. This individual will combine strong technical knowledge with a service-oriented mindset, data-driven approach, and the ability to communicate effectively with attorneys, staff, vendors, and leadership.

    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:

    Benefits and Compensation

    • Lead the planning, administration, and continuous improvement of the Firm’s benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, wellness initiatives, and retirement plans.
    • Serve as the primary point of contact for benefits vendors, brokers, and retirement plan partners, including renewals, plan design changes, and benchmarking.
    • Manage and execute the annual open enrollment process, including communications, system configuration, employee education, and issue resolution.
    • Oversee leave and disability programs (FMLA, ADA, STD, LTD), ensuring compliance, consistency, and confidentiality.
    • Support the Firm’s total rewards strategy, including participation in and analysis of salary surveys, market benchmarking, and internal equity reviews.
    • Partner with HR leadership on compensation planning, merit increase cycles, and bonus support processes.
    • Ensure accurate benefits setup, deductions, and reporting in ADP Workforce Now.

    HR 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.).  
    • Support the development 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.  

    Employee Relations, Talent and Engagement Support

    • Support employee relations matters, including investigations, issue resolution, and guidance to managers as requested by the Director of HR.
    • Participate in recruitment and onboarding processes for staff roles, including job description development and hiring coordination.
    • Assist with performance review cycles, talent development initiatives, and employee engagement efforts.
    • Conduct exit interviews and analyze trends related to retention, benefits utilization, and employee satisfaction.

    HR Technology, Automation, and Payroll

    • Assist in maintaining ADP Workforce Now as needed.
    • 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; 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. Prior experience with ADP Workforce Now preferred.  

    The anticipated salary range for this position is $120,000 to $160,000.  Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, skills, job- related considerations, internal equity, and market conditions.  

    Benefits include health, dental, vision, 401(k), and a profit-sharing plan.  

    Apply for the Human Resources Manager - Benefits & Compensation here

    Senior Billing Specialist

    Seattle, WA; Washington, DC

    ABOUT THE ROLE

    The Sr. Billing Specialist serves as a strategic liaison between timekeepers, clients, and the Firm’s billing and accounting functions, providing end-to-end client account support for complex and high-value matters. This role partners closely with timekeepers to ensure accurate, timely, and client-compliant invoicing while supporting broader firm objectives related to pricing, budgeting, and revenue management.

    In this role, the Sr. Billing Specialist applies advanced knowledge of legal billing, client guidelines, alternative fee arrangements, and e-billing platforms to proactively manage client accounts, resolve billing challenges, and improve financial outcomes. The position requires strong analytical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to translate billing data into actionable insights for timekeepers and firm leadership.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Collaborate with timekeepers to ensure complex billing arrangements, including multi-payer and delayed split billing, volume discounts, retainers, and alternative fee arrangements are followed prior to finalizing invoices.
    • Review and analyze invoices to ensure compliance with Firm policies, client billing guidelines, and contractual requirements.
    • Coordinate the preparation and distribution of monthly pre-bills, track timekeeper feedback, and ensure timely completion of revisions and invoice finalization.
    • Monitor client accounts to proactively identify billing risks, exceptions, or delays, and partner with timekeepers on appropriate resolution strategies.
    • Research and resolve billing issues related to unbilled time, aging balances, unapplied cash, and client inquiries, providing thoughtful recommendations to support timely resolution.
    • Act as a trusted escalation point for complex billing issues, rejected invoices, or client-specific requirements.
    • Identify and address issues related to billing setup, time entry, or rate configuration to prevent subsequent billing challenges.
    • Generate and analyze Work in Progress (WIP), Accounts Receivable (AR), and On-Account reports for assigned timekeepers and matters.
    • Facilitate the preparation and submission of matter budgets and as requested, provide variance analysis and financial insights to timekeepers.
    • Process billing-related adjustments, including narrative corrections, time entry splits, write-ups, write-downs, transfers, in accordance with Firm policy.
    • Maintain oversight of client invoicing and payment activity to support potential audit requests for audit appeals process.
    • Identify opportunities to improve billing processes, documentation, and workflows to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and client satisfaction.
    • Satisfactorily performs all other duties as assigned.

    EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

    • High school diploma or GED required, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance, or related field preferred
    • 5+ years of legal billing experience managing high volume billing portfolio in a fast-paced customer environment, customer service and business analysis.
    • Strong working knowledge of Work in Progress (WIP), Accounts Receivable (AR), accruals, and billing lifecycle management.
    • Experience preparing, reviewing, and finalizing invoices, including pre-bill review, revisions, and electronic invoice submission.
    • Advanced attention to detail with the ability to identify billing risks, inconsistencies, or compliance issues before invoice submission.
    • Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
    • Experience supporting and managing retainer-based agreements and complex billing arrangements, including alternative fee arrangements, multi-payor & split billing, and client-specific billing guidelines.
    • High degree of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling sensitive financial and client information.
    • Strong knowledge in Aderant Legal Billing accounting system. Proficient in billing applications such as eBilling, LEDES file formats or BillBlast; experience with iTimekeep preferred.
    • Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.

    Salary range: The anticipated salary range for this position is $65,000 to $105,000. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, skills, job- related considerations, internal equity, and market conditions.

    Benefits package: includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), and a profit-sharing plan.

    Apply for the Senior Billing Specialist position here.

  • EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY

    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.

  • TRANSPARENCY IN COVERAGE RULE PROVIDED BY CIGNA

    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.