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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel (Harrisburg)
    Assistant Counsel
    Department of Environmental Protection

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel seeks a licensed attorney to work as an Assistant Counsel in the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Office of Chief Counsel’s Central Office in Harrisburg. The position will be classified as either an Attorney 1, 2, 3, or 4 Non-Supervisory depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant. This position is eligible for part-time telework with an in-office requirement of three business days per week. 

     

    What You Will Do:

    This attorney will be responsible for counseling DEP concerning the administration of its various grant programs and being lead counsel for the Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania (RISE PA) Program. Attorneys within this office provide counseling and litigation services for labor and employment disputes; review of procurements, transactional agreements, and bonds; Right-to Know Law/Records Retention; bankruptcy and collections; and is legal counsel to the State Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators, the State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers, and the Coordinating Committee on Professional Practices. The attorneys draft, negotiate and litigate contracts and grant agreements for the Department.

     

    Trial and appellate litigation generally occurs before the PA Board of Property and state or federal courts. Counsel also review responses generated by the programs for Pennsylvania Right to Know Law requests. The work requires close coordination with DEP’s management and technical staff, including geologists, engineers, chemists and biologists, and applicants must be comfortable with learning aspects of these scientific disciplines as necessary to provide sound counseling service. 

     

    What We Are Looking For:

    We are seeking a candidate who is ready to bring their expertise and passion to this dynamic role. The successful candidate will demonstrate:

    1. Sharp Legal Acumen: A track record in conducting thorough legal research, analysis, and reasoning, with the ability to tackle challenging issues with precision.

    2. Outstanding Communication Skills: Exceptional interpersonal abilities and a talent for persuasive oral and written advocacy that makes an impact.

    3. Creative Problem-Solving: An innovative mindset and professional discretion to address and resolve sensitive, complex problems with confidence and finesse.

    4. Versatility and Team Spirit: The capability and enthusiasm to handle a diverse range of complex legal matters, thriving both independently and as a valued team member.

    5. Strong Connections and Adaptability: A knack for building and maintaining relationships within the broader legal community and navigating effectively within a governmental organization.

     

    Why Join OGC?

    At OGC, you’re not just practicing law—you’re shaping the future of Pennsylvania. We offer a career filled with purpose, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a difference. Here’s what you can expect:

    • Comprehensive Benefits: Top-tier health care options, retirement plans, and generous paid time off.

    • Work-Life Balance: Excel in your career while having the time to enjoy your personal life.

    • Continuous Learning: A supportive culture that fosters ongoing professional development and advancement.

     

    Joining our team means being part of a respected institution dedicated to legal excellence and public service. To learn more about OGC’s mission and what it is like to be part of the OGC team, visit our website, at www.ogc.pa/careers.

     

    Qualifications:

    •  Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school.

    • Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar.

     

    Apply Today!

    Send your letter of interest, resume, and writing sample (no longer than 10 pages) by January 10, 2025, to ogchiring@pa.gov, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, 333 Market Street, 17th Floor, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101.

    OGC is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce.  The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania.  The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.  All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.