The Centre for Environmental Rights NPC (CER) is seeking to hire two candidate attorneys for placement starting on 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2027. The successful candidate will be offered a two-year fixed-term contract to serve their practical vocational training (Articles). We are looking for graduates who have a special interest in and passion for environmental and climate justice, and who are committed to using the law to uphold environmental rights.

CER is committed to diversity, inclusion and transformation and strives to reflect South Africa’s racial, cultural, sex and gender diversity within its staff complement. Candidates from historically disadvantaged or marginalised groups are strongly encouraged to apply for this post and will be preferred.

Location

Cape Town or Johannesburg

Qualifications, skills and experience

An LLB or equivalent qualification; an LLM in a relevant field will be an advantage.
Demonstrable writing and analytical skills, good presentation skills, and attention to detail
Computer literacy and excellent legal research skills
A passion for environmental, social and climate justice

Key responsibilities

Consulting with clients
Conducting legal research in support of advocacy and litigation
Drafting legal documents, submissions and opinions
Liaising with the media and other stakeholders
Representing CER in civil society forums

The current salary for the position is R 356 355 (total cost to company) which includes the compulsory membership to the Centre’s group medical aid and pension plan subsidy benefits.

Working for the CER

The Centre for Environmental Rights is a non-profit organisation and law clinic of activist lawyers who work with communities and civil society organisations in South Africa to realise our Constitutional right to a healthy environment by advocating and litigating for environmental justice. We seek a just, equitable, compassionate society which is resilient, celebrates diversity, and respects the inter-dependence between people and the environment.

We work across the following core themes: Mining, Water, Pollution and Climate Change, Corporate Accountability & Transparency, and Activist Support & Training. We have our main office in Mowbray, Cape Town, with a smaller office in Johannesburg.

How to apply

Please send the following documents to: with the email subject line: “CER CA 202 5-2027 , Ref no. 02/2024, Your full name ”:

A cover letter setting out your skills and relevant experience, and motivating why you want to work at the CER;
Your updated CV; and
Two recent contactable written references not less than 6 months old

Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete relevant tests or assignment to demonstrate competency.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The Centre reserves the right not to appoint should there be no suitable candidate.

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Centre for Environmental Rights jobs

Candidate Attorneys 2025-2027 [02/2024]