Research Attorney (Attorney I) - Austin

About the Role

The Office of Injured Employee Counsel (OIEC) is seeking a detail-oriented Research Attorney with a strong passion for legal research and analysis. This entry-level role is ideal for someone who enjoys exploring complex topics, providing high-quality written work, and contributing to meaningful agency initiatives. As a Research Attorney, you will work closely with OIEC’s leadership team to deliver timely, accurate, and well-supported legal research. Assignments may require quick turnaround times and close collaboration with colleagues across the agency. You will play a key role in helping OIEC address complex legal issues, support agency operations, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and standards. This position works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Responsibilities

• Provides comprehensive legal research and support to agency leadership
• Delivers clear, accurate, and timely research on complex legal issues
• Responds to legal research requests and other requests for assistance
• Analyzes statutes, regulations, and case law to support agency decision-making
• Assists in drafting appeals, legal briefs, rule comments, and proposed legislation
• Provides backup legal assistance to Regional Staff Attorneys, including support with legal research, hearing preparation, interpretation of laws and regulations, and other assigned legal tasks to ensure continuity and consistency in service delivery
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school with a J.D. or LL.B.
• Legal research and writing experience
• Licensed as an attorney in good standing with the State Bar of Texas

Preferences

• One year of legal research and writing
• Law clerk experience
• Experience working for a State of Texas agency

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Demonstrated Knowledge:

• Legal research databases (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis)
• Legal principles, practices, and procedures

Demonstrated Skills:

• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical abilities
• Sound reasoning and logical analysis
• Exceptional attention to detail

Demonstrated Abilities:

• Identify and resolve complex problems
• Interpret and explain laws and regulations
• Conduct thorough legal research and summarize findings clearly
• Interpret laws and apply them appropriately
• Use legal reference materials effectively
• Explain legal concepts to non-lawyers
• Prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and meet deadlines
• Build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing

Benefits

• 96 hours of accrued vacation a year
• 96 hours of accrued sick leave a year
• 20+ holidays every year
• Career advancement opportunities
• Free parking
• Free comprehensive medical insurance for full-time employees and 50% off premium costs for dependents (state pays other 50%)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness program

Candidate must reside in Texas or be able to relocate to Texas by the start date. OIEC does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.