Associate - Energy (Mid-Level)

Washington, District of Columbia

Job Description Pillsbury’s Finance & Restructuring Business Unit is seeking a high-performing associate with approximately 3–5 years of experience to join its Energy practice in Washington, DC. The Associate will work primarily with the firm’s Nuclear & Fusion Energy practice, with opportunities to support the broader Energy Infrastructure Projects practice and develop experience across energy, infrastructure, commercial transactions, and regulation.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in transactional, commercial, project development, and/or finance work and be comfortable taking ownership of substantive workstreams. Prior nuclear experience is valued but not required. Candidates with experience in energy, infrastructure, project development, project finance, corporate transactions, commercial contracting, or another technically complex industry are encouraged to apply. Experience with nuclear energy, advanced reactors, fusion, or other highly regulated infrastructure is a plus.

We are looking for an associate who demonstrates sound judgment, takes ownership of assignments, and consistently produces high-quality work. A proactive mindset, attention to detail, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to client service are foundational to success.

Responsibilities include:

• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial, procurement, development, supply, and other project agreements.
• Supporting energy project development, financing, commercial transactions, and nuclear fuel and supply arrangements.
• Working on advanced nuclear, small modular reactor, fusion, and other emerging energy and infrastructure projects.
• Supporting regulatory, licensing, adjudicatory, appellate, compliance, and export control matters arising in connection with energy projects.
• Managing substantive workstreams and assuming increasing responsibility for matters and client relationships.
• Collaborating with attorneys across practices and offices on complex domestic and international matters.

Qualifications include:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) or foreign equivalent; an LL.M. will be considered in lieu of a J.D.
• Approximately 3–5 years of relevant legal experience, including experience in complex transactions, energy, infrastructure, project development, project finance, commercial contracting, or related work.
• Prior or current experience at an Am Law 100 firm (preferred).
• Prior military experience or security clearances are valued but not required.
• Engineering or technical background is valued but not required.
• Excellent academic credentials.
• Exceptional analytical, research, drafting, and legal writing skills.
• Strong judgment, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and manage competing priorities.
• Thorough understanding of professional ethics and conduct codes applicable to legal practice.
• Admission to and good standing with the District of Columbia Bar, or eligibility to waive in.

The expected salary range for this position is $260,000 - $365,000. Final compensation will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to, relevant experience, qualifications, skill set, and geographic location.

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you require an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please contact us at [email protected].