Associate Chief Counsel, Public Health

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is led by Secretary Janet Stanek, appointed by Gov. Kelly in December 2021. KDHE comprises three divisions: Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance (including the State’s Medicaid program, KanCare). This unique structure allows a holistic approach to improving and protecting the health and well-being of all Kansans.

About the role

The Associate Chief Counsel, Division of Public Health provides legal services as an attorney in areas including Division of Public Health, contract law, HIPAA compliance, and related issues. Duties include case negotiations, representation of the agency in administrative and judicial hearings (including appellate courts), and advising agency staff on legal matters ranging from uncomplicated to complex. The attorney reviews documentation of facility inspections within the agency’s jurisdiction, interfaces with other governmental entities, attorneys, investigators, witnesses, and technical consultants, and supervises a team of three.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal services in areas of Division of Public Health, contract law, HIPAA compliance, and similar issues.
• Conduct case negotiations and represent the agency in administrative and judicial hearings, including appellate courts.
• Advise agency staff on legal matters related to programs in the Division of Health.
• Review documentation of inspections for facilities under the agency’s jurisdiction.
• Interface with governmental entities, attorneys, investigators, witnesses, and technical consultants.
• Supervise a team of three junior attorneys and staff.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from a United States accredited law school.
• Certificate of admission to the Bar of the Supreme Court of Kansas or temporary permit to practice law issued by the Supreme Court of Kansas at the time of hire.
• Active member of the Kansas Bar in good standing or ability to receive a law license in Kansas upon application or motion.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Ability to analyze, appraise, and organize facts, evidence, and precedents for clear oral or written presentation (e.g., briefs, opinions, orders, or decisions).
• Proficiency in analyzing legal documents and instruments.
• Some environmental law experience.
• Excellent oral and written communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
• Strong proofreading, editing, and attention to detail.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED.
• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Juris Doctor from a U.S. accredited law school.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3 years of progressive legal experience in a professional setting.
• 1 year of experience practicing law as a licensed attorney.
• Supervision experience of junior attorneys and staff.
• Experience with drafting, promulgating, and defending administrative regulations and policies.

Post-Offer, Pre-employment Requirements

• Licensed to practice law in the State of Kansas.
• Valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate (required for all State of Kansas employees).

Schedule

• Full-time, regular position.
• Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (flexible schedules available).

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, and vision coverage.
• Sick and vacation leave.
• Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave.
• Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually).
• Fitness centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Veterans’ Preference Eligible: Yes. KDHE does not provide sponsorship for this position.