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, and Denver.

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 see below for more information about joining our team.

  • LATERAL ATTORNEYS

    Experienced Electric Regulatory Associate – Washington, DC or Seattle, Washington

    Looking to Join a Premier Energy Law Practice While Maintaining Work/Life Balance?

    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 5+ years of electric regulatory experience and an aptitude for detailed work on energy regulatory and policy matters, particularly interpreting and applying the Federal Power Act to wholesale markets and bulk transmission system operations.

    In addition to join a premiere national and regional energy practice, 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 pro bono or business development 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.

    Desired skills and qualifications include:

    • Foundational knowledge of the Federal Power Act, the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA) and other federal energy laws;
    • Knowledge of, and experience with: (i) FERC cost-of-service ratemaking policies and practices; (ii) open access transmission service and interconnection matters; (iii) market-based rate authorizations; and (iv) market rules for wholesale energy, capacity and ancillary services;
    • Strong analytical research and writing skills;
    • Exceptional communication skills; and
    • Experience before state utility commissions or federal and state courts on energy regulatory matters 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 applicable starting annual base salary based on 5+ years of experience in the range of $175,000 to $195,000.  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

    Director, Governmental Issues

    Van Ness Feldman, LLP, a mid-sized Washington, DC-based law firm that specializes in energy, natural resources, environmental and transportation policy, is seeking a Director, Governmental Issues to assist the firm’s various practice areas with research, analysis and advocacy pertaining to public policy in the Legislative and Executive Branch.  This includes, but is not limited to, tracking developments and engaging with both clients and federal policymakers in issue areas that include climate change, energy technologies, environment, natural resources, transportation, infrastructure and the federal budget.   The position will be based in the Washington, D.C. office.  

    The Director will work both independently and with colleagues. The successful candidate will be able to complete various work elements from conception to completion in a timely manner and follow direction that may be detailed or minimal. The ideal candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively and constructively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, interests and points of view; exercise good judgment in a variety of situations; maintain a realistic balance among multiple priorities; utilize effective methods for time management and prioritization of tasks; and possess the ability to identify and address urgent and important needs in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

    The strength of our Firm’s success comes from the unique combination of our differences in substantive knowledge, perspective, professional, and civic backgrounds. We approach our work collaboratively, allowing us to formulate strategies that capitalize on this diversity. To this end, we are committed to fostering a positive and creative environment that attracts talented individuals with varied experiences.  Among our ongoing efforts, we strive to recruit and retain the highest caliber attorneys, public policy professionals, and staff that represent a broad array of backgrounds.

    Responsibilities

    • Analyze and summarize legislation pertaining to key energy, environmental, natural resource, budget, appropriations and other client issues.
    • Prepare memoranda and reports on congressional hearings and mark-ups.
    • Work alongside colleagues to develop policy positions on topics relevant to energy, environmental, budget, appropriations and other client issues.
    • Draft reports, advocacy materials, Issue Alerts and client communications.
    • Coordinate with others to update tracking documents focused on legislation, regulatory action and other matters of significance to the practice.
    • Directly communicate, both written and orally, with firm clients and federal policymakers.
    • Assist the team to perform education and outreach to Congress, the Administration and key constituency groups to support policy and other goals, as necessary.
    • Coordinate with the team to support content creation, media engagement, social media planning, and other communications tasks for coalition advocacy clients.
    • Help plan and organize internal and external meetings, briefings, and other events that will include congressional briefings.
    • Build trust and strategic partnerships with key communities and external stakeholders important to client representations. Participate in various briefings on subject matter pertinent to issue areas noted above.
    • Attend political events as needed.


    Desired Qualifications and Skills

    • Bachelor’s Degree or relevant proven skills and experience.
    • Prior experience (3+ years) working on public policy. Experience on Capitol Hill a plus.
    • Knowledge of or prior experience with energy, natural resources, environmental and/or transportation issues is a plus.
    • Experience, professional or otherwise, coordinating coalitions, organizing events, and attending meetings or public events on behalf of an organization.
    • Demonstrated willingness and ability to work collaboratively and effectively with diverse individuals and institutions, including those with whom you may personally disagree.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • High attention to detail and ability to work independently.
    • Ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
    • Excellent time and deadline management, project management and team relationship skills.
    • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint)
    • Interest in joining a collaborative team that supports professional development goals.

    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.

    Benefits include health, dental, 401(k), and profit-sharing plan.  Please provide your resume by clicking here.

  • ADMINISTRATIVE & PROFESSIONAL STAFF

    Lead Operations Coordinator - Washington, DC

    Van Ness Feldman is seeking a Lead Operations Coordinator for our Washington, DC office. The Lead Operations Coordinator will work with the Operations Manager in ensuring the overall maintenance and general upkeep of all Firm office spaces in the Washington, DC office.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    Along with the Operations Manager, this person will be a go-to resource for all questions and issues relating to office operations and physical records management and will be responsible for the following tasks:

    • Handle maintenance, custodial, security, furnishings, related purchasing, and facility work as needed and proactively (preventative).
    • Handle office repair and maintenance requests.
    • Process work orders, RFPs for specific work, and assist with contracts as necessary under the guidance of the Operations Manager.
    • Serve as a point of contact for all facilities related work, contractors, security, maintenance, testing, inspections and building administration.
    • Coordinate the key/fob/security card programs and serve as the point of contact for security concerns.
    • Proactively identify and assist in resolving safety hazards.
    • Assist with the coordination of renovations, refurbishments, and construction/building projects.
    • Assist in drafting policies and procedures related to the management of the Firm’s facilities.
    • Assist with purchasing and ordering of supplies, break room food, furnishings, and other general office needs. Seek out ways to make the process more efficient and cost effective.
    • Assist with office moves, assigning and maintaining guest offices and assigning visitor offices.
    • Examine office operations and activities with respect to best practices and make recommendations to enhance efficiencies and promote continuous improvement.
    • Assist in planning/coordinating office events.
    • Ensure the office is regularly cleaned and maintained.
    • Assist in submitting work orders/handle facilities maintenance, which includes establishing and maintaining relationships with building management.
    • Provide back-up reception coverage; greet guests as needed.
    • Assist in updating office floor plan, phone list.
    • Serve as an additional office point of contact for DC Office Operations.
    • Assist with monitoring/ordering supplies and ensuring service areas, Café and conference rooms are appropriately stocked.
    • Assist with handling conference room scheduling, ordering catering for meetings and events, handling conference room set up, and ensuring conference rooms are cleared/cleaned before and after meetings.
    • Provide notary services as needed.
    • Assist in the operation and maintenance of office facilities including safety programs, security systems, specialized equipment, supply inventory, and other building-related activities.
    • Assist in developing and maintaining safety plans and procedures, ensuring that plans are clearly and regularly communicated and updated as needed due to changing conditions.
    • Provide mailing services support.
    • Assist with managing physical records and off-site storage vendor.
    • Perform other duties/projects as assigned.
       

    DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

    • At least 5 years progressive general office facilities, property management, or building maintenance experience.
    • Prior law firm experience a plus.
    • Must have excellent communication skills, organizational skills, and general knowledge of office equipment and tools.
    • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
       

    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.

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

    Click here to apply.

    Public Policy Executive Assistant - Washington, DC

    Van Ness Feldman is seeking a Public Policy Executive Assistant in our Washington, DC office. The Public Policy Executive Assistant performs various administrative functions for VNF professionals, clients, and affiliate organizations. Requires high-level clerical, grammar/spelling skills, proficient software skills, ability to interact with clients, policy professionals and other members of the firm, and ability to preserve confidentiality of client and firm matters. Participates actively as a team member among administrative personnel and all other firm employees.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Provides administrative support to policy professionals, clients, trade associations and other individuals associated with the firm; must be able to work cooperatively and as a team player in an environment with limited supervision. Requires the ability to organize and prioritize numerous tasks, appropriately balance workload, manage competing deadlines, and resolve project conflicts. Understands individual responsibility to meet deadlines, including filing deadlines.
    • Handles client inquiries on behalf of public policy professionals, schedules meetings, arranges conference calls/video conferences, makes travel arrangements, follows up on behalf of professionals and takes charge of administrative details without seeking unnecessary direction.
    • Requires the ability to read and write at least at a college level and a familiarity with some policy terminology pertinent to the area of assignment in order to proofread and perform minor editing (e.g., punctuation, grammar, spelling) of routine correspondence and/or documents. With large, complex documents, proofreading in a team may be required.
    • Prepares documents, correspondence, memoranda, and charts/tables as needed. Must be proficient in firm software applications to produce error-free documents and correspondence with minimum supervision and revisions. Must be able to exercise appropriate judgment with respect to balancing work assignments and meeting deadlines.
    • Proofreads all work to ensure accuracy. Requires the ability to read and write proficiently. Must be familiar with legal terminology necessary to proofread and edit documents/correspondence.
    • Observes all procedures for maintaining client confidences.
    • Maintains files, as necessary. Conducts periodic review of files to determine purging based on firm’s Records Retention policy.
    • Makes travel arrangements, reserves accommodations for out-of-town travel, and maintains supervisors’ calendar and travel itineraries as required by supervisors. Reconciles travel expenses per firm policy.
    • Enters and proofs time entries as necessary; ensures appropriate client and matter numbers are assigned to each time entry.
    • Prepares expense reports/firm credit card reconciliation ensuring client and matter numbers are included, as necessary. Maintains record of expenditures as required.
    • Shows interest in mastery of skills, seeks new skills and continuous improvement.
    • Photocopies information and/or documents and disseminates as needed/requested. Reviews all material for accuracy in duplication process before distribution.
    • Coordinates arrangements for meetings and conferences as needed by supervisors. May include scheduling in-house conference rooms and/or off-site locations, arranging for food and/or equipment delivery and set-up, and preparing materials for meetings.
    • Responsibilities include interfacing with clients to greet, coordinate and attend to clients directly. This includes working with Facilities to ensure meeting spaces are adequately set-up before and cleaned after meetings.
    • Communicates effectively in person/via phone with a diverse group of clients, attorneys, public policy professionals, and other firm employees and to provide information courteously and professionally maintaining the firm’s high professional standards; must be able to perform duties that require good judgment and initiative with limited supervision. Must also be able to complete tasks under pressure.
    • Provides assistance to professionals by researching, analyzing and synthesizing a variety of topics under the guidance of supervisor.
    • Completes special projects: compiles, collates and organizes information, as requested, to complete projects which may be assigned.
    • Handles mail (internal/external and hand deliveries): opens, reads, and routes mail as appropriate.
    • Proficiently operates all office equipment relevant to meeting job expectations.
       

    DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

    • Completion of bachelor’s degree or equivalency and at least one year of office/administrative experience.
       

    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.

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

    Click here to apply.

    Billing Specialist (Bay Area, CA)

    Our Lafayette, California office is seeking a Billing Specialist. The Billing Specialist is a liaison between assigned attorneys and the Billing Department by completing billing, accounts receivables, and collections. This position requires exceptional communication skills, interpersonal skills, ability to multi-task, strong organizational skills, and an eye for detail.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Collaborate with attorneys/Director of Billing to ensure complex billing arrangements, including multi-payer and delayed split billing, volume discounts, and alternative fee arrangements are followed prior to finalizing invoices.
    • Facilitate the preparation and submission of budgets for specified matters and provide variance analysis to attorneys as requested.
    • Coordinate and prepare the monthly distribution of pre-bills to attorneys for review and revisions.
    • Monitor the completion of suggested revisions and finalization of invoices.
    • Analyze invoices to ensure compliance with firm policies and client guidelines.
    • Generate Work in Progress (WIP), Accounts Receivable (AR), and On-Account reports. Also, track assigned attorneys’ inventories.
    • Complete ad hoc billing requests as requested by attorneys.
    • Research aging WIP and AR balances and provide attorneys with thoughtful analysis regarding best course of action for balances.
    • Review accounts receivables for collections and unallocated cash.
    • Handle client refund requests, as required.
    • Make corrections to time entries in WIP, as needed.
    • Identify any issues/problems with billing assignments.
    • Review client guidelines and work closely with the Billing Specialists and the attorney team to ensure compliance with billing guidelines and proper set up of matters; ensuring matters, rates, timekeepers and budgets are in place for e-billing prior to invoice submission.
    • Submit invoices through various e-billing vendors and monitor e-bill client accounts to ensure the client invoices are accurate and successfully submitted in a timely manner.
    • Update annual billing rates and apply to requested client matters as requested.
    • Work closely with the Accounting Department to communicate special circumstances and reapplication of payments.
    • Work closely with attorneys and staff to resolve issues with rejected invoices.
    • Complete monthly filing of billing information in iManage, as necessary.
    • Provide monthly estimates/accruals for client billing, upon request.
    • Complete audit appeals for fee recovery.
    • Satisfactorily perform all other duties as assigned.
       

    DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

    • High school diploma, at a minimum.
    • 1 to 3 years of law firm billing experience.
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.
    • Aderant experience preferred.
       

    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.

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

    Please apply by clicking here.

    California salary range: $58,000 to $65,000

    *Salary ranges may vary based on skills and overall experience.

  • 1L DIVERSITY FELLOWSHIP - SEATTLE OFFICE

    As part of Van Ness Feldman’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are proud to offer the Van Ness Feldman Seattle Diversity Fellowship to an outstanding first year law school student.  The Fellow will receive a paid 1L Summer Associate position in our Seattle office and a $10,000 scholarship to assist with law school tuition.  The Fellowship also includes the opportunity to continue as a VNF Diversity Fellow during the student’s 2L summer, which includes an additional $10,000 scholarship; and a possible offer for full-time employment with signing bonus post law school.

    First year students who demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion are encouraged to apply.

    Selection Criteria:

    The Fellowship is open to all first-year law students who have demonstrated:

    • Diverse background and life experiences
    • Academic excellence
    • Leadership ability
    • Commitment to their community
    • Desire to promote diversity within the legal profession


    Application Materials:

    To apply, please submit the following:

    • A personal statement addressing the ways in which you have and will foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal community, what these qualities mean to you, and why you are interested in Van Ness Feldman
    • Your resume
    • Your undergraduate and law school transcripts (if your law school grades are not yet available, please forward when available)
    • Two to three professional references
    • A legal writing sample that has not been edited by others


    Applications must be received no later than Jan 8, 2024. 

    Please send materials via email to:

    Ms. Saira Rhodes
    Van Ness Feldman LLP
    1191 Second Ave., Suite 1800
    Seattle, WA 98101
    slr@vnf.com

  • 1L DIVERSITY FELLOWSHIP - DC OFFICE

    As part of Van Ness Feldman’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are proud to offer the Van Ness Feldman D.C. Diversity Fellowship to an outstanding first year law school student.  The Fellow will receive a paid 1L Summer Associate position in our D.C. office and a $10,000 scholarship to assist with law school tuition.  The Fellowship also includes the opportunity to continue as a VNF Diversity Fellow during the student’s 2L summer, which includes an additional $10,000 scholarship; and a possible offer for full-time employment with signing bonus post law school.

    First year students who demonstrate a commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion are encouraged to apply.

    Selection Criteria:

    The Fellowship is open to all first-year law students who have demonstrated:

    • Diverse background and life experiences
    • Academic excellence
    • Leadership ability
    • Commitment to their community
    • Desire to promote diversity within the legal profession

    To apply, please submit the following:

    • A personal statement addressing the ways in which you have and will foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal community, what these qualities mean to you, and why you are interested in Van Ness Feldman
    • Your resume
    • Your undergraduate and law school transcripts (if your law school grades are not yet available, please forward when available)
    • Two to three professional references
    • A legal writing sample that has not been edited by others
       

    Application Deadline: January 8, 2024.   

    At Van Ness Feldman, diversity and inclusion encompass a wide range of characteristics including age, race, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, physical ability, military service, religion and other groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession. The firm is committed to maintaining a work environment where the unique attributes, perspectives, backgrounds, skills, and abilities of each individual thrive and contribute to our collective success.

    For more information, please contact DiNoua Avery at dnm@vnf.com.

  • 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.