Governor's Office of General Counsel (Harrisburg)
Assistant Counsel
Department of Labor and Industry, Office of Chief Counsel
Safety and Labor-Management Relations Division
The Pennsylvania Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks an Assistant Counsel for the Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) in the Office of Chief Counsel’s Safety and Labor-Management Relations Division. This position will be classified as either an Attorney 1, 2, or 3 depending on the relevant experience of the successful candidate(s). An Attorney 1 is considered to have limited legal experience or exposure to the labor law practice and an Attorney 3 is considered to have significant litigation experience and a profound understanding of labor law. OGC will consider applicants based in Harrisburg. This position is eligible for a hybrid remote/in-office schedule of three days onsite at the discretion of the General Counsel.
Issues You'll Work On
L&I administers and enforces worker protection and occupational safety laws in Pennsylvania. The Office of Chief Counsel reports to OGC and provides legal representation to L&I across its program areas. The successful applicant(s) for this position will provide legal interpretation and other support with ongoing investigations and represent L&I in enforcement actions arising under state worker protections, including the Minimum Wage Act, the Wage Payment and Collection Law, the Prevailing Wage Act, the Child Labor Law, the Construction Workplace Misclassification Act, the Seasonal Farm Labor Act, and more.
What You'll Do
Under the supervision of the Deputy Chief Counsel, the Assistant Counsel will handle a variety of legal matters, including summary criminal actions, civil and administrative litigation, and appellate advocacy. The position will also include opportunities to work on cutting-edge rulemaking, review proposed legislation, have frequent contact with labor law investigators, and contribute to other strategic initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field for both workers and law-abiding employers. The Assistant Counsel will also provide advice and counsel on workplace safety standards, the Uniform Construction Code, and other related issues.
What We're Looking For
The role requires an attorney who possesses excellent litigation and advocacy skills, communicates well orally and in writing, is a team player, can capably manage a large case load, and thinks creatively about the law. While not required, the ideal candidate will have prior experience litigating or enforcing workplace labor and safety laws, comparable enforcement experience working for a government agency, and/or experience with the rulemaking process.
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:
Competitive benefits package, including excellent health care options, retirement plans, and generous paid time off;
Work-life balance that ensures that you can excel professionally while also enjoying time for personal pursuits; and,
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.
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school
- Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar
Apply Today!
Send a letter of interest, resume, and writing sample no later than February 28, 2025, to ogchiring@pa.gov, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, 30 North Third 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.