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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel (Pittsburgh Preferred)

    Assistant Counsel
    Department of Transportation, Office of Chief Counsel
    Workers' Compensation Legal Division

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks one licensed attorney to work as Assistant Counsel in the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I), Workers’ Compensation (WC) Legal Division.  This position is preferred to be based in Pittsburgh; however, Harrisburg and Philadelphia area applicants are welcome to apply.  It will be classified as either an Attorney 1, 2, or 3 depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful candidate.  An Attorney 1 is considered to have limited legal experience or exposure to the workers’ compensation practice and an Attorney 3 is considered to have significant litigation experience and a profound understanding of workers’ compensation. This position is eligible for a hybrid remote/in-office schedule of three days onsite at the discretion of the General Counsel.  This position also requires travel to other locations in the Commonwealth.

     

    What You'll Do:

    The Department of Labor and Industry is responsible for, among other services, administering the workers’ compensation (WC) system in Pennsylvania.  The successful applicant for this position will provide legal support, representation, and advice to L&I’s Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).

    The work includes representing the Uninsured Employers Guaranty Fund in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation.  Each WC attorney independently handles a full case load of 30-40 active files, on average. WC lawyers prepare and file petitions and answers; appear extensively before workers’ compensation tribunals; take and defend factual and expert depositions; attend mediation conferences; and draft proposed findings of facts, conclusions of law and briefs before the workers’ compensation judges.  WC counsel also file and/or defend appeals, including drafting briefs, and appear with frequency before the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania, and the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.  WC attorneys file and enforce civil liens as well as draft private criminal complaints and assist in and/or handle criminal prosecutions against uninsured employers.  WC lawyers also review, analyze and process Supersedeas Fund Applications and litigate Supersedeas Fund reimbursement proceedings, as well as handle matters conducted in accordance with the General Rules of Administrative Practice and Procedure and be part of the regulatory review process. 

     

    What We’re Looking For:

    The successful applicant for this position should be interested in a dynamic litigation practice, and will demonstrate:

    •  a minimum of 2 to 4 years of legal experience;

    • excellent legal research, reasoning, analytical, and writing skills;

    • independent thinking and proficiency in persuasive brief writing;

    • attentiveness to detail;

    • good work habits, including speed and efficiency;

    • superior interpersonal and communication skills; and

    • strong oral presentation skills.

    Advance knowledge of the WC Law is not necessary provided that the candidate otherwise has a genuine interest in the work.  These positions require the exercise of confidentiality, independent judgment, and understanding.

     

    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:  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.

    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 July 18, 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.