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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel - Pittsburgh Preferred

    Assistant Counsel (Attorney 1, 2, or 3)
    Department of Labor & Industry, 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. 

    This position 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).

    This role offers the opportunity to handle meaningful litigation, advocate for injured workers, and protect the integrity of the workers’ compensation system. Key responsibilities include:

    • Represent the Uninsured Employers Guaranty Fund (UEGF) in all aspects of workers’ compensation litigation.
    • Manage an independent caseload of 30–40 active files, on average.
    • Prepare and file petitions and answers.
    • Appear extensively before workers’ compensation tribunals.
    • Take and defend factual and expert depositions.
    • Attend mediation conferences.
    • Draft proposed findings of fact, conclusions of law, and briefs before workers’ compensation judges.
    • File and defend appeals, including drafting briefs and appearing before the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board, Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
    • File and enforce civil liens.
    • Draft private criminal complaints and assist in/handle criminal prosecutions against uninsured employers.
    • Review, analyze, and process Supersedeas Fund Applications.
    • Handle matters conducted under the General Rules of Administrative Practice and Procedure.
    • Participate in 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: (1) a minimum of 2 to 4 years of legal experience; (2) excellent legal research, reasoning, analytical, and writing skills; (3) independent thinking and proficiency in persuasive brief writing; (4) attentiveness to detail; (5) good work habits, including speed and efficiency; (6) superior interpersonal and communication skills; and (7) 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 from the main page 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 September 26, 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.