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New Leaf Energy, Inc.

Real Estate Counsel

New Leaf Energy, Inc., Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290

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Real Estate Counsel – New Leaf Energy, Inc. New Leaf Energy is an experienced clean energy developer that partners with landowners, policymakers, and other stakeholders to accelerate the transition to a world powered by renewable energy. We identify high-value sites, work with landowners and local communities to develop them, and partner with long‑term asset owners to bring the most impactful clean energy projects to life.

Position Summary You will support and advise the company’s project developers, engineers, and project finance professionals on real estate development activities for a large portfolio of commercial photovoltaic solar projects, energy storage projects, and wind projects spanning more than 18 states. This role requires knowledge, skills, character, and a solutions‑oriented approach.

The role may be based in Lowell, MA; Boston, MA; Troy, NY; Oakland, CA; or Chicago, IL offices. We value in‑person collaboration and offer a hybrid work environment, with in‑office attendance at least two days per week on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.

Responsibilities

Draft, negotiate, and revise option and lease agreements, purchase options, easements, development agreements, decommissioning bonds, amendments, referral agreements, assignment agreements, and other real‑estate related documents.

Identify and implement measures to improve the quality and efficiency of site control, due diligence, and closing on the sale of development assets.

Assist with and oversee the review and summary of title reports, underlying title documents, and ALTA surveys; draft title curative instruments.

Advise Project Finance and Project Development teams on the impact of real estate matters on project financeability.

Negotiate with buyers, lenders, and title companies to resolve all real‑estate issues to close out projects.

Draft, negotiate, and revise various master services agreements.

Supervise outside counsel as necessary.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Qualifications

Law degree and strong academic record from a leading ABA‑accredited law school.

At least 4 years of substantial, relevant legal experience at a top‑tier law firm, sophisticated corporate legal department, or combination of the two.

Extensive experience drafting and negotiating site leases, easements, and other real‑estate contracts.

Experience reviewing title and survey reports, clearing title exceptions, and obtaining final title commitments and title policies.

Experience reviewing ALTA surveys.

Experience with the real‑estate‑related requirements of parties that finance the development and construction of renewable energy projects.

Excellent organizational and time‑management skills.

Attention to detail with strong written and oral communication skills.

Passion for accelerating the adoption of renewable energy.

Licensed to practice law in any state.

Compensation New Leaf Energy offers a market‑competitive base salary, above‑market variable compensation, and an equity‑like program that provides ownership benefits. For the Chicago, IL area the expected base salary range is $175,330 – $203,770, with an on‑target annual cash bonus of 10% of base salary. Actual compensation may vary with location and experience.

Benefits and Culture

Competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental and vision.

401(k) plan with immediate vesting and company match (100% of the first 3% of pay; 50% for the next 2%).

Open and self‑managed paid time‑off policy.

Hybrid work location policy supporting work from home.

Parental leave policy for both birthing and non‑birthing parents, available immediately upon hire.

Professional development and education assistance.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion New Leaf Energy values diverse perspectives, skills, experiences, and contributions of all employees. We aim to create an environment where everyone feels they belong and can be their most authentic selves. New Leaf Energy provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetics, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal and local laws. EEO M/F/D/V.

Recruiting Note New Leaf Energy’s People & Culture team coordinates all recruiting. We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third‑party recruiters or staffing firms unless a signed agreement is in place and authorization has been granted. Unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of New Leaf Energy and are not accepted.

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