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    Governor's Office of General Counsel

    Attorney Vacancy

    Governor’s Office of General Counsel

    Assistant Counsel (Attorney 2, 3, or 4) 
    Administrative and Workforce Division
    Department of Labor and Industry
    Office of Chief Counsel – Harrisburg

     

    The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks a licensed attorney to work as Assistant Counsel in the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Office of Chief Counsel, Administrative and Workforce Division. This position is based in Harrisburg (preferred) and will be classified as an Attorney 2, 3, or 4 depending on experience. This position is eligible for a hybrid remote/in-office schedule of three days onsite at the discretion of the General Counsel.

     

    What You’ll Do

    L&I is a large agency that handles a broad range of labor and employment issues, including unemployment compensation (UC) matters. The individual hired for this position will provide legal support and advice to several Boards and Councils, with a primary focus on the Unemployment Compensation Tax Review Office (UCTRO).  The UCTRO conducts administrative proceedings involving employers’ appeals of UC Contribution Rate Notices issued by the Office of Unemployment Compensation Tax Services (OUCTS) and Petitions for Reassessment filed by putative employers in response to Notices of Assessment issued by OUCTS.  

    This attorney will advise the UCTRO’s hearing officers concerning various aspects of these UC tax proceedings, including but not limited to, procedural guidance and instructions to interested parties regarding the scheduling and reconvening of hearings, administering oaths, issuing subpoenas, ruling on offers of proof, receiving evidence, taking depositions, holding conferences before and during hearings, disposing of procedural matters and motions, and reviewing briefs and pleadings filed by parties.  This attorney will also advise the UCTRO regarding interpretations and applications of the Pennsylvania UC Law and its attendant Regulations, the Administrative Agency Law, the General Rules of Administrative Practice and Procedure, the Sunshine Act, the Federal Unemployment Tax Act, rules of evidence for administrative hearings, and relevant case law.    

    Moreover, this attorney will assist the UCTRO in drafting prompt and impartial decisions consistent with L&I policy and all applicable laws and regulations, particularly for legally complex or novel issues. The decisions are based upon the record developed at a hearing, or the paper record in the absence of a hearing.   While most of this attorney’s time will be spent supporting the UCTRO, this position will also work with other Boards and Councils under L&I’s purview as time allows.

     

    Who We’re Looking For

    The ideal candidate exercises sound independent judgment while communicating effectively both orally and in writing, and thrives in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. Success in this role requires strong analytical, research, and writing abilities, attention to detail, efficiency, and the ability to build productive relationships with clients and colleagues. Prior government or nonprofit legal experience is preferred but not required. Familiarity with Pennsylvania UC Law is not required. We welcome candidates who have strong litigation skills, a genuine interest in learning this area of law, and a demonstrated commitment to high-quality public service.

     

    Required Qualifications

    Applicants Must:

    • Hold a Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school 

    • Be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in good standing

     

    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 as  a single, combined PDF or Word document by November 27, 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.