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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel (Pittsburgh)

    Assistant Counsel
    Department of Corrections, Office of Chief Counsel

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) is seeking a licensed attorney with qualifying litigation law experience to work in the Department of Corrections, Office of Chief Counsel.  This position provides legal support to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, whose mission is to provide those committed to our care with programming, education, and mental health services to reduce recidivism, while respecting victim rights and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure every reentrant has the opportunity to successfully reintegrate back into the community.  This entry-level position will be based in the DOC’s sub-office in Pittsburgh at 750 Holiday Drive and will report to the DOC’s headquarters in suburban Harrisburg.  The position will be classified depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant and is eligible for a hybrid work schedule (three days onsite and two days telework) at the discretion of the General Counsel.

     

    What You'll Do:

    The successful candidate will serve as counsel for the Parole Field Services Division in the Western Region. This role involves representing the agency and its staff in both routine and complex litigation, often in state and federal courts. The attorney will provide legal advice, handle investigations, trials, hearings, and settlements, and may argue cases in court. The position also includes advising staff on legal matters, reviewing and interpreting laws and regulations, commenting on legislation, and providing training on legal issues related to the agency’s work. Topics may include constitutional rights, employment law, contracts, and more.

     

    What We’re Looking For:

    We are seeking an attorney with litigation experience, including appearances before administrative tribunals, county courts, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania, and U.S. District Courts. Familiarity with Section 1983 litigation is strongly preferred, as the primary responsibility of this role is to represent the Parole Field Services Division and its employees in adversarial legal matters.

    The ideal candidate will have strong legal research, analysis, and reasoning skills, along with excellent communication and interpersonal abilities. They should be able to exercise sound judgment, solve problems creatively, and handle a variety of legal issues both independently and as part of a team. A strong interest in and experience with litigation is essential. This is a meaningful opportunity for a committed legal professional interested in public service.

     

    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 https://www.pa.gov/agencies/ogc/ogc-careers-home.

     

    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 June 6, 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.