Centre for Environmental Rights – Advancing Environmental Rights in South Africa

The Centre for Environmental Rights is able to offer a paid six-month legal internship to a law graduate who has completed his or her LLM in Environmental Law, starting immediately.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• An LLB or equivalent tertiary qualification, and an LLM in Environmental Law
• A sound understanding of legal and procedural requirements for environmental decision-making and legal challenges
• A good knowledge of environmental legislation, case law and recent legal developments
• An ability to work independently, without constant supervision, and to take initiative
• An ability to work effectively and creatively with limited resources
• Excellent writing and legal drafting skills
• A sensitivity to social issues and needs
• A commitment to high quality client service and attention to detail

Key responsibilities:

The legal intern will:

• conduct legal research and drafting legal documents, including correspondence, pleadings and opinions;
• assist the CER in preparing court applications and administering court actions;
• populate and maintain the CER’s website, particularly its Virtual Environmental Law Library; and
• generally support the Executive Director and attorneys in the legal and administrative operations at the Centre.

Like all our interns, the legal intern will also participate in WWF-SA’s Environmental Leaders Programme.

Commencement date, working hours and duration: The six-month contract with the legal intern will commence as soon as possible, and on a full-time basis. The Centre closes on 17 December 2013 and reopens on 13 January 2014.

Closing date: Applications should reach us as soon as possible, but not later than 9 September 2013. The Centre reserves the right to fill the position before that date, and therefore encourage applicants to apply immediately.

All applications must include the following:

• A cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining why you think you have the right qualifications, skills and experience for the position, as advertised
• A curriculum vitae (3-5 pages), that also lists at least three references with updated contact details
• At least one written letter of reference, not more than 6 months old
• Academic transcripts for all tertiary qualifications

All applications must be emailed to [email protected], and have your name and the vacancy reference number (CER6/2013) in the email subject line. Questions about the position can also be directed to [email protected]

The Centre for Environmental Rights strives to reflect South Africa’s racial, cultural and gender diversity within its staff complement. All suitably qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.