Associate Legal Counsel (20040269)

About the role

Ohio EPA is seeking a senior staff attorney to join the legal group supporting the Division of Surface Water (DSW) at the downtown Columbus office. The attorney will provide legal counsel and advice to the director and division chief, craft legal strategies and confidential documents, and handle complex environmental enforcement cases. The role also involves navigating multi‑division and agency legal issues, representing the director in sensitive negotiations and proceedings, and coordinating with the Attorney General’s Office on enforcement cases and judicial appeals. Additionally, the senior counsel will advise staff attorneys on policy and law matters, contribute to rule development, offer legislative testimony, and respond to public and official inquiries on behalf of the director.

Responsibilities

• Draft and negotiate enforcement‑related documents.
• Conduct legal research and provide legal advice to staff and senior management.
• Provide legal advice and support on rulemaking and legislation.
• Review public records for confidentiality and public disclosure considerations.
• Review and draft contracts, grants, access agreements, and environmental covenants.
• Provide legal counsel to the director and division chief, including crafting legal strategies and confidential documents.
• Assist with complex environmental enforcement cases and navigate multi‑division/agency legal issues.
• Represent the director in sensitive negotiations and proceedings.
• Act as liaison and coordinate with the Attorney General’s Office on enforcement cases and judicial appeals.
• Prepare findings, orders, and administrative documents for high‑profile cases.
• Advise staff attorneys on policy and law matters, contribute to rule development, and offer legislative testimony.
• Respond to inquiries from the public and officials on the director’s behalf.

Requirements

• Admission to the Ohio Bar pursuant to Section 4705.01 of the Revised Code.
• At least 12 months of experience as a licensed attorney.
• At least 6 months of experience in employee training & development.

Skills

• Attorney/Legal expertise
• Public Relations
• Law
• Research
• Policy Direction
• Equipment Operations
• Written Communication
• Verbal Communication
• Customer Focus

Pay

Compensation: $44.36 – $63.41 (hourly)

Schedule

Full‑time