Attorney Vacancy

Governor's Office of General Counsel

Attorney 1, 2, 0r 3
 Department of Revenue, Office of Chief Counsel

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) is seeking a licensed attorney to work in the Department of Revenue, Office of Chief Counsel. This position provides legal support to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, whose mission is to fairly, efficiently, and accurately administer Pennsylvania tax laws and the Pennsylvania Lottery programs. This position is based in Harrisburg, with an expectation that the selected candidate will adhere to a hybrid telework model that requires on site headquarters presence in Harrisburg three days a week and remote work performed within the Commonwealth at an approved telework location for the remaining two weekly scheduled workdays.  The selected candidate will be classified as either an Attorney 1, 2, or 3 depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant.

What You'll Do:

Attorneys within the Office of Chief Counsel are responsible for advising the client on all matters related to the collection, administration, and enforcement of Pennsylvania taxes, as well as the administration of the Pennsylvania Lottery, which is a bureau within the agency.

Counsel provides strategic legal advice and support to help Department staff achieve goals and objectives.  These responsibilities require the performance of the full range of legal services such as litigation before administrative tribunals, state courts, and federal courts; drafting legal instruments to secure payment of delinquent taxes; and aiding and counseling the Department in the application, administration and enforcement of the Commonwealth’s tax and collection laws.  While competency in all Department administered taxes is required, there is a particular focus on complex bankruptcy matters, civil tax collection and enforcement cases/matters, and criminal tax matters. All work is performed independently and subject to minimum supervision.  Difficulty of work assignments range from routine to difficult and complex.

Work product consists of review and preparation of traditional litigation responses such as appeals, answers and new matter, position statements, compromise orders, requests for reconsideration, petitions for review and briefs on procedural and substantive grounds.  Additionally, attorneys are expected to produce internal legal memoranda for Revenue bureau staff and executive staff, as well as legal guidance disseminated to the public in the form of private letter rulings, tax bulletins, and advisory opinions.

What We’re Looking For:

The successful applicant for this position must demonstrate:

1. 1 to 3 years of legal experience;
2. excellent legal research, reasoning, analytical, and writing skills;
3. proficiency in reviewing pleadings and evidence and identifying relevant legal issues and developing proposed responses consistent with Department tax policy;
4. attentiveness to detail;
5. good work habits, including speed and efficiency;
6. an ability to work independently and track and prioritize varying assignments so that deadlines are not missed;
7. superior interpersonal and communication skills; and
8. comfort in presenting legal analysis orally to Department staff. 

Litigation experience or knowledge of tax law is not necessary but preferred.  Recently Graduated law students are encouraged to apply provided that relevant experience was obtained during law school either through course work or externships/clerkships.

The successful candidate will be organized, have excellent oral and written communications skills, including in-person and remote (e.g., phone, video conference) meetings, as well as excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, including attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to work with a diverse group of clients and colleagues, foster trust and respect, and to create friendly and collaborative intra-agency and interagency working relationships are a must.

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, 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.