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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Assistant Counsel (Attorney 2)

    Office of Chief Counsel, Pennsylvania Department of Education

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks an Attorney to serve in the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s general law section to provide legal advice to clients of the agency and Administration regarding a variety of elementary, secondary and postsecondary education matters. The position will be classified as Attorney 2 depending upon the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant. The position is based in Harrisburg. This position is eligible for part-time telework with an in-office requirement of three business days per week at the discretion of the General Counsel.

     

    What You'll Do:

    The ideal candidate will have an interest in education and administrative law which are vital to the achievement of the agency’s mission.  This candidate will provide legal advice to clients at all levels of the agency and Administration regarding a variety of elementary, secondary and postsecondary education matters; will interpret and implement legislation; foster and administer Administration initiatives; and concentrate on the interplay between applicable laws and policy.  The employee in this position will provide input on novel and challenging legal problems facing the agency in areas such as teacher preparation and certification, federal programs, higher education, transactions and regulations.  Employee will provide representation to bureaus before boards or commissions and will represent the Agency in administrative due process hearings before the Secretary of Education and various appellate tribunals.    

     

    What We’re Looking For:

    We are seeking a candidate with experience in the following areas: administrative litigation and general school law. This position requires excellent written and oral communications skills, attention to detail, exceptional interpersonal skills, and an ability to foster trust and respect, including creating collaborative and responsive working relationships with colleagues, education professionals, clients, and other members of the public.  Three to five years of experience gained through a judicial clerkship, a law firm or other public service entity where focus was on litigation would be ideal.

     

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

     

    Qualifications:

    • Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school. 
    •  Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar.  

    To Apply:

    Send a letter of interest, resume, and writing sample  by February 21,  2026, 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.  

    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.html.