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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel  

    Assistant Counsel
         Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency
    Office of the State Fire Commissioner

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks an experienced attorney to provide representation and legal advice to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency’s (PEMA) Office of Chief Counsel. The PEMA Office of Chief Counsel also serves the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). This position is classified as an Attorney 3. Salary is commensurate with experience. This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to serve the Commonwealth. Flexibility and commitment to public service are essential.

    The role is based at PEMA Headquarters in Harrisburg, with eligibility for a hybrid work schedule (three days in-office) at the discretion of the General Counsel. However, PEMA operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If PEMA’s Commonwealth Response Coordination Center is activated by the Director of the Agency due to an emergency, the attorney is expected to be available to report to work at the PEMA Headquarters building regardless of day or time (7 days a week/24 hours a day) upon request by the PEMA Director or the Chief Counsel.

     

    What We’re Looking For:

    This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a versatile attorney who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. As legal counsel supporting both PEMA and the OSFC, you will navigate a wide range of legal matters, often shifting rapidly between critical issues that impact public safety and emergency response at the state and federal levels.

    We are seeking a skilled legal generalist with exceptional writing and interpersonal skills, capable of fostering trust and collaboration across government agencies and with the public. You will play a vital role in providing sound legal guidance, ensuring compliance, and facilitating effective decision-making in high-pressure situations. This position offers the opportunity to work independently while also receiving strategic guidance from the Chief Counsel on complex or sensitive matters.

     

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating agreements related to procurement, intergovernmental agreements, MOUs, and other legal documents.
    • Conducting form and legality review on contracts and agreements.
    • Providing legal support and guidance during emergencies or disaster situations and PEMA exercises and trainings (including nuclear power plant exercises, black sky training, no-notice drills).
    • Providing counsel on matters related to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code, the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law, and relevant federal regulations.
    • Representing PEMA and OSFC in legislative interactions and with various government agencies and officials.

     

    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:

    • Competitive Benefits Package:  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.  

    To Apply:

    Interested attorneys should send a cover letter setting forth their interest in this position, a resume, and a writing sample (no more than 10 pages) not later than March 21, 2025, to ogchiring@pa.gov, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, 30 North 3rd Street, Suite 200, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101. 

    OGC is an Equal 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.