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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor’s Office of General Counsel

    Assistant Counsel (Attorney 1 or 2)
    Bureau of Regulatory Counsel
    Department of Environmental Protection
    Office of Chief Counsel – Harrisburg

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel seeks a licensed attorney to work as an Assistant Counsel in the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Office of Chief Counsel’s Bureau of Regulatory Counsel in Harrisburg. The position will be classified as either an Attorney 1 or 2 depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant. This position is eligible for part-time telework with an in-office requirement of three business days per week.

     

    What You’ll Do

    The Bureau of Regulatory Counsel supports the Commonwealth’s environmental oversight by advising DEP on the administration of state and federal environmental laws.  The successful candidate will:  

    • Provide legal counsel across DEP programs, including water, air quality, waste management, energy, mining, and more 
    • Draft regulations and review permitting actions 
    • Advise on legal issues related to program implementation 
    • Represent DEP before regulatory bodies and, at times, in state or federal court 
    • Review responses to Right-to-Know Law requests  

    You will work collaboratively with DEP leadership and technical staff such as engineers, geologists, chemists, and biologists, translating complex scientific concepts into practical legal guidance.

     

    Who We’re Looking For

    The ideal candidate brings a mix of sharp legal skill, sound judgment, and collaborative energy.

    You’ll stand out if you have:

    • Strong legal fundamentals – excellent research, analysis, and reasoning abilities 
    • Clear and persuasive communication – both written and oral advocacy that lands 
    • Creative problem-solving skills – especially when navigating complex or sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion 
    • Versatility and ownership – confidence handling a wide range of legal matters independently and as part of a team 
    • Relationship-building strength – the ability to work effectively across the legal community and within a government environment 
    • Exceptional interpersonal skills, with a talent for building trust, respect, and strong working relationships with Commonwealth clients 
    • Sound judgment and a commitment to confidentiality and professionalism 

     

    Preferred Experience

    • Familiarity with environmental law 
    • Exposure to regulatory matters

     

    Required Qualifications

    Applicants must:

    • Hold a Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school (or graduate by May 2026); and
    • Be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in good standing, or plan to sit for the Pennsylvania or Universal Bar Exam by July 2026.

     

    Why Join OGC

    At OGC, you are not simply reviewing contracts. You are helping shape the economic engine of the Commonwealth.

    • Purpose-Driven Practice
      • Support programs that expand opportunity and strengthen communities statewide.
    • Professional Growth
      • Work alongside experienced government attorneys on complex, high-visibility initiatives.
    • Stability with Impact
      • Public service with real influence on policy, regulation, and economic development.
    • Comprehensive Benefits
      • Competitive salary
      •  Generous paid leave
      •  Excellent health benefits
      • Retirement plans

    To learn more about OGC visit: https://www.ogc.pa.gov and select Careers with OGC.

    Apply Today

    Submit the following by May 15, 2026:

    • Cover letter expressing interest in this specific position
    •  Resume
    • Writing sample (10 page max)

    Email: ogchiring@pa.gov
    Attn: Derek Riker
    Deputy General Counsel
    30 N. 3rd Street, Suite 200
    Harrisburg, PA 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.