Counsel II

Siting Division reviews include evaluation of need for the project, alternative project options (such as energy efficiency, advanced transmission technologies, and distributed energy resources), environmental impacts and mitigation measures, cost-effectiveness, and consistency with state energy/environmental policies, statutes, and regulations. EFSB siting authority includes consolidated permits, construction permits, exemptions from local zoning, issuance of other state and local permits, advisory rulings and determinations, and compliance oversight. If you are ready to leverage your expertise and passion for public service to help the Commonwealth advance its clean energy future, the Counsel II role is an ideal next step in your energy/environmental career!

The Counsel II role will challenge you in a fast-paced, dynamic and collegial environment. In addition to the review of major energy facilities, you will also get extensive opportunities to learn about and advise on cutting edge energy technologies.

A cover letter and resume must be submitted as part of the application process and attached.

Responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

• serving as Presiding Officer on high-priority, complex and highly contested agency adjudications;
• managing the case schedule and specific conduct of the adjudicatory proceeding, including conducting local public comment hearings and presiding at evidentiary hearing(s); making written and oral rulings; working with technical staff to ensure the development of a thorough record;
• participating in the preparation of a Tentative Decision and Final Decision, and presenting the Tentative Decision to the Siting Board at its deliberative public meeting;
• preparing legal research and/or memoranda on agency jurisdiction, procedures, legal standards, as well as on applicable law and precedent, and developing recommended actions based on that research;
• representing the Siting Board in interventions before other administrative agencies;
• mastering local, state and national siting and permitting procedures, requirements and standards;
• drafting regulations and reviewing legislation.

The successful candidate will have:

• experience in administrative law, public utility law, energy policy or environmental law
• expertise in the statutes and regulations governing siting and permitting of major new energy infrastructure in Massachusetts
• strong organizational skills
• ability to communicate clearly and effectively in oral and written form
• good interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain effective working relationships with persons at all levels and a broad array of stakeholders.

Incumbent may be required to attend a one-week out of state training program.

EFSB Overview

The Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB) is an independent state board that reviews proposed clean energy infrastructure facilities (such as renewable electric generation, energy storage, and electric transmission lines and substations); and legacy energy facilities (such as intrastate natural gas pipelines; fossil-fuel electric generating facilities, and large liquid natural gas storage facilities). The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) administratively supports the work of the EFSB and its staff, but the eleven-member EFSB makes its decisions independently.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is responsible for oversight of electric, natural gas, and water utilities in the Commonwealth.

For further information, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/energy-facilities-siting-board

Siting Division Overview

The Siting Division of the DPU is a diverse team of planners, engineers, economists, lawyers, and environmental specialists that reviews major energy facility proposals requiring EFSB approvals. Our mission is to ensure that approved projects are consistent with applicable statutes, regulations, and policies, and serve the public interest. The work of the Siting Division takes place in a rapidly evolving energy landscape, with significant technological, regulatory, and market changes, and a growing emphasis on both mitigating and adapting to climate change, while maintaining reliable, safe, and cost-effective energy supplies vital to the Massachusetts economy. The projects we review are at the forefront of important energy, environmental, and technological trends that are transforming energy infrastructure in Massachusetts.

For further information, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/energy-facilities-siting-board.

Qualifications

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and (A) at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law.

Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid Motor Vehicle Drivers License at a Class level specific to assignment.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

Client-provided location(s): Boston, MA

Job ID: Commonwealth_of_Massachusetts-260002GZ

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Posted: 2026-03-27T18:51:25