Full‑service Chicago‑based law firm advising businesses on corporate, real estate, litigation and tax matters.
Lead environmental counsel for M&A, compliance, and litigation in a national law firm.
29 days ago ago
Expert & Leadership (13+ years)
Full Time
Chicago, IL
Office Full-Time
Company Size
159 Employees
Service Specialisms
Corporate
Real Estate
Construction
Litigation
Employment
Technology
Alternative Energy
Hospitality
Sector Specialisms
Corporate
Business Reorganization and Creditors’ Rights
Cannabis and Regulated Industries
Clean Tech and Alternative Energy
Construction
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain
Environmental
Estate Planning and Wealth Transfer
Role
Description
Requirements
rcra
cercla
cwa
10+ years
licensed
analytical
Experience with hazardous waste disposal issues, including RCRA application and "superfund" (CERLA) liability, including experience representing potentially responsible parties in CERCLA cleanups
Significant experience assessing environmental risk through the due diligence process and determining proper allocation of same in M&A transactions, including drafting environmental provisions for documents, assessing need for environmental insurance, permitting transfers, etc.
Additional knowledge/experience with other broad-based aspects of environmental law, such as:
10+ years of experience practicing environmental law, including:
Familiarity with, and excellent research capability over, all areas of environmental law, including CWA, CAA, RCRA, TSCA, ESA and state analogs.
Candidates must be currently licensed in Illinois or Colorado, or licensed in another state with a UBE score that qualifies in Illinois or Colorado for comity, be eligible to waive in, or be willing to sit for an upcoming IL or CO bar exam (open to relocation candidates that meet these requirements).
Experience choosing and working with environmental consultants, working with opposing counsel, and with client communication
Strong analytical, interpersonal and communication skills. The ideal candidate has the ability to work as part of a team while also having the confidence and demeanor to assume individual responsibility for matters involving direct client interaction. This attorney will serve as business advisor to clients, guiding them in a full range of legal matters throughout their life cycle.
Significant experience with all appropriate inquiry in the context of CERCLA liability, including ability to critically evaluate Phase I, II ESAs and other property assessments
Portable book of business required
Benefits
Low turnover, collegial and collaborative environment
Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance
Comprehensive benefit package and competitive salary - more info can be found here https://www.gouldratner.com/uploaded_images/GR-salary%20scale-benefits-page-2-01-21-25.pdf
Generous vacation, personal, & sick time allowance
The firm was established in the 1930s and has since grown into a multidimensional legal advisor.
Opened in 2024
Denver Expansion
The firm expanded its presence by opening its first office outside Chicago in Denver in 2024.
1961 Landmark Deal
Notable Transaction
The firm's founding partner advised on the 1961 sale of the Empire State Building to the Crown Family.
The firm evolved from a small corporate practice into a multidimensional legal advisor.
Over decades, it grew from three attorneys handling general corporate work into a midsize firm with broad capabilities in corporate, real estate, tax, estate planning, construction, litigation, and environmental law.
Typical engagements include venture-backed startup financings, mergers, major real estate development deals, and complex construction disputes.
Notable projects include Chicago's LaSalle Street corridor revitalization initiative and transactional, litigation, and regulatory matters across industrial, hospitality, and technology sectors.
Lawyers often serve as practical, business-savvy counsel, acting as outsourced general counsel for startups, family offices, and private investment funds.
Despite its scale, the firm maintains a tightly knit structure, enabling attorneys to handle multiple legal disciplines for a single client in a seamless manner.
Culture + Values
We take pride in being an agile, client-focused firm that provides practical, results-oriented advice.
Our people are our most valuable asset, and we invest in their growth and development.
We foster a collaborative environment where teamwork, integrity, and respect are core to everything we do.
We are committed to delivering exceptional service to our clients while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Environment + Sustainability
2050
Net Zero Goal
The firm aims to eliminate its carbon emissions entirely by 2050.
Gould & Ratner LLP has committed to reducing its carbon footprint through energy-efficient office practices and sustainable sourcing.
The firm has implemented waste reduction initiatives and participates in local environmental programs to minimize its impact.
Inclusion & Diversity
35% workforce
Women representation
Women make up 35% of the total workforce, reflecting significant gender diversity within the organization.
25% leadership roles
Women in leadership
25% of leadership positions are held by women, indicating progress toward gender parity in top roles.
The firm has set specific targets for increasing diversity at all levels, including leadership positions.
The firm conducts regular training and professional development programs aimed at fostering an inclusive workplace.