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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel (Harrisburg)

    Assistant Counsel
    Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Office of Chief Counsel

     

    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 primarily to DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry, although our office works with other key DCNR programs like the Bureau of State Parks, Bureau of Facility Design and Construction, 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:

    1. Strong research and problem-solving skills—creativity and discretion are a must.

    2. The ability to manage diverse legal matters both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

    3. Experience in litigation, property law (Board of Property experience is a plus), and transactions.

    4. 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:

    • 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 30,  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.