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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel 

    Attorney
    Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, Office of Chief Counsel

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) is seeking a licensed attorney with general experience in contracts, grants, regulations, administrative litigation, and Right-to-Know Law. This position provides legal support to the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), whose mission is to engage, coordinate, and lead the Commonwealth’s effort to prevent and reduce substance use disorder and problem gambling, and to promote recovery in order to reduce the human and economic impacts of those conditions. This position is based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and is eligible for hybrid work (three days onsite and two days telework at the discretion of the Chief Counsel). The position will be classified as either an Attorney 2 or 3 depending on the experience possessed by the successful applicant.

     

    What You'll Do:

    Attorneys within the Office of Chief Counsel are responsible for drafting, editing, and reviewing grant agreements and contracts; drafting and interpreting legislation and regulations; advising on issues regarding receipt and disbursement of funds under the agency’s grant programs to local government and private entities; advising on licensing and confidentiality issues; and responding to civil subpoenas and Right-to-Know matters.

    The Office of Chief Counsel provides strategic legal guidance to each business unit within DDAP, including licensing, local governmental partner operations, administration, fiscal, and operational excellence. While civil and administrative litigation is not frequent, agency attorneys may appear in administrative hearings and before the Commonwealth Court on licensing sanctions, personnel matters before the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, appeals of Right-to-Know Law matters, and other agency matters as directed by Chief Counsel. 

     

    What We’re Looking For:

    The Office of Chief Counsel seeks an attorney knowledgeable in Pennsylvania law relating to substance use programs, behavioral health, administrative and regulatory process, Right-to-Know Law, and Commonwealth contract and grant requirements.  Candidates must be well organized, detail-oriented, and have oral and written communication skills for both in-person and remote interactions. Strong research, analytical, problem-solving, and time management abilities are essential, along with the ability to apply constructive recommendations and feedback. As part of a small, two-person legal office, the candidate must also be comfortable working independently and handling a broad range of legal matters with minimal supervision.

     

    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 and select Careers with OGC  at https://www.ogc.pa.gov. 

     

    Qualifications:

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

    • Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar.

    • Minimum of 3 years of legal practice  

    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 13, 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.