Attorney Vacancy

Governor’s Office of General Counsel

Executive Deputy Chief Counsel (Attorney 5 - Internal Only) 
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Office of Chief Counsel - Harrisburg

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks a licensed attorney to work as the Executive Deputy Chief Counsel in the Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) Office of Chief Counsel (OCC).  This position will be classified as an Attorney 5.  This position is eligible for a hybrid remote/in-office schedule of three days onsite and two days telework at the discretion of the General Counsel.

This is an exceptional opportunity to take on a leadership role in one of the largest executive agencies in the Commonwealth, to manage a diverse portfolio while leading and working collaboratively with the PennDOT Chief Counsel to manage the operations of the PennDOT legal office.

The Role:

Working closely with the Chief Counsel and other OCC team members, the Executive Deputy Chief Counsel will play a key role in office management and administration, supporting OCC’s programmatic divisions, engaging with internal and external stakeholders, and helping to develop and advise on legal strategy. 

Core responsibilities include the following:

•  Assisting the Chief Counsel in execution of strategic initiatives and implementing the directives of the Chief Counsel throughout OCC.
• Supervising a team of legal and administrative professionals, overseeing, in consultation with the Chief Counsel, all aspects of OCC’s operations (hiring, training, staff development, procurement, contracting, and more).
• Working closely to supervise and provide advice and other support to Deputy Chiefs Counsel for each of OCC’s programmatic divisions.
• Reviewing and commenting on policy development, rulemaking, and legislation.
• Working collaboratively with the Chief Counsel to advise PennDOT leadership, carry out special projects, and handle other matters of high sensitivity.
• Interfacing with external stakeholders, vendors, outside counsel, and other outside parties.

Who We’re Looking For

The ideal candidate will bring exceptional legal abilities, sound professional judgment, and a strong commitment to advancing PennDOT’s mission to enhance, connect, and add value to communities by providing a sustainable, equitable and safe transportation system and quality services for all.

Successful applicants will demonstrate:

• A clear interest in public service.
• Strong professional judgment, discretion and well-developed interpersonal skills for working with clients, subordinates and supervisors.
• Experience managing or leading a team.
• Experience in one or more areas of transportation, litigation or transactional legal practice.
• Strong legal research, writing, and advocacy skills, including the ability to present complex legal and regulatory issues clearly and persuasively.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and experience with public speaking.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage complex tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Required Qualifications

• A Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar.
• A minimum of ten years of professional legal experience. 

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.