Governor's Office of General Counsel (Harrisburg)
Assistant Counsel, Office of Chief Counsel
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic attorney to serve as Assistant Counsel in the Office of Chief Counsel (OCC) for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Based in Harrisburg, this role offers a unique chance to combine your legal expertise with your passion for public service and the environment while working a hybrid schedule of 3 days in-office each week at the discretion of the General Counsel.
Why Work with DCNR?
DCNR manages 2.2 million acres of State Forest lands and 124 State Parks, ensuring Pennsylvania’s natural beauty and resources are preserved for future generations. As Assistant Counsel, you’ll provide legal advice and representation to key DCNR programs like the Bureau of State Parks, Bureau of Forestry, and Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.
What You'll Do
In this role, you’ll dive into transactional law, real property disputes, and contractual matters—drafting, reviewing, and negotiating agreements while ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. You’ll also gain hands-on experience with litigation and work on meaningful cases that directly impact Pennsylvania's public lands and communities.
What We're Looking For
We’re seeking a proactive attorney with:
Strong research and problem-solving skills—creativity and discretion are a must.
The ability to manage diverse legal matters both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Experience in litigation, property law (Board of Property experience is a plus), and transactions.
Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
Why Join OGC?
Working as an attorney with the OGC offers a unique and fulfilling career opportunity where you can make a significant impact on the people of Pennsylvania. Employees enjoy a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters professional growth and development. This role not only allows you to contribute to the public good but also provides ample opportunities to hone your legal skills in a collaborative setting.
In addition to meaningful work, the OGC offers:
a competitive benefits package, including excellent health care options, retirement plans, and generous paid time off;
a work-life balance that ensures that you can excel professionally while also enjoying time for personal pursuits; and,
a supportive culture promoting continuous learning and professional advancement, making it an ideal place for both new and experienced lawyers to thrive.
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.
Requirements
Candidates must have a Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school and be a member in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar.
Apply Today!
Interested applicants should send a cover letter setting forth interest in this position, resume, and writing sample (no more than 10 pages) not later than February 28, 2025, to ogchiring@pa.gov, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, 30 N. 3rd Street, Suite 200, 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.