Energy Associate Attorney Project Finance at Direct Counsel

Direct Counsel is seeking a mid-level Energy Associate to join a market-leading government-facing energy finance team in Washington, D.C. This group is widely recognized as one of the premier practices advising clients on securing government-backed loans for energy infrastructure and clean energy projects through programs such as the DOE Loan Programs Office and similar agencies.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney looking to work on first-of-their-kind transactions, alongside top-tier sponsors, lenders, and developers in the energy transition space.

You’ll be involved in all aspects of complex project financings, including:

• Structuring and negotiating project financings, tax equity bridge loans, back leverage facilities, and pre-NTP financings

• Drafting and reviewing credit agreements, depository account agreements, letters of credit, and payment/performance bonds

• Advising on supply agreements (transformers, BESS, turbines, inverters, modules) and balance of plant agreements

• Supporting due diligence and bankability analysis across key project documents

• Working with cross-functional government finance and regulatory teams

• 3–5 years of project finance experience (lender or borrower side)

• Exposure to DOE LPO, USDA 9003, or EXIM “Make More in America” Programs is a plus — not required

• Strong drafting experience across core financing and project-side documentation

• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

• Strong academic credentials and prior experience in a large law firm or sophisticated practice

• Location: Washington, D.C.

• Compensation Range: $260,000 – $365,000, commensurate with experience

• Firm culture is described as collegial, collaborative, and growth-oriented, offering clear advancement opportunities for high performers.