GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL (HARRISBURG)
ASSISTANT COUNSEL (ATTORNEY 2 OR 3)
PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks a licensed Attorney to advise the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) with respect to general legal matters and administrative practice and procedure. The ideal candidate will have an interest in Agriculture administrative law, contract drafting and review, and in developing expertise in the laws, regulations and processes applicable to PDA’s regulatory authority and the mission of PDA, which is to ensure a vibrant agricultural economy, a successful future for Pennsylvania agriculture, and to safeguard the public.

The position will be classified as either an Attorney 2 or 3 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.

What You Will Do:

The successful applicant will provide legal counsel to the Department of Agriculture’s various bureaus, and will handle contracts and transactions matters, including IT software and procurement matters and drafting and review of contract terms and conditions. Duties would also include regulatory drafting and review, interpretation of laws and regulations, and legal issues analysis. The attorney may also serve as counsel for PDA in administrative hearings and appeals. The attorney will be required to work independently, but with supervision of the Chief Counsel.

What We Are Looking For:

This position calls for an attorney who excels at crafting clear, persuasive written and oral communications and thrives on building trust and respect through strong interpersonal connections. Attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills are a must, as is the ability to navigate complex legal issues with professionalism and precision. In this role, you will collaborate closely with colleagues, agricultural leaders, educational professionals, and members of the public to develop practical, innovative legal solutions that support Pennsylvania’s agricultural community.

Why Join OGC?

At OGC, you’re not just practicing law—you’re shaping the future of Pennsylvania. We offer a career filled with purpose, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a difference. Here’s what you can expect:

Comprehensive Benefits: 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. The PDA legal office has a strong record of attorney retention, with many attorneys building long and fulfilling careers within the agency. Those who do move on often find new and impactful roles elsewhere within the Commonwealth, benefiting from their experience here.

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.

Qualifications:

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

Apply Today!

Send your letter of interest, resume, and writing sample (no longer than 10 pages) by Friday, December 27, 2024, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of General Counsel, 333 Market Street, 17th Floor, 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.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,678.00 - $143,277.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k)
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Schedule:

8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

Do you currently reside in Pennsylvania?

License/Certification:

PA Attorney License (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Harrisburg, PA 17120

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