Staff Attorney - Department of Health

Join a great team dedicated to the public health of Vermonters! The Vermont Department of Health (the Department) is the state's public health agency, providing leadership statewide in public health services, protection, promotion, and policy.

About the role

The Department's legal team serves as the Health Department's in-house legal counsel, providing legal guidance and advice to all of the Department's divisions, units, and staff. The chosen candidate will report directly to the Department's General Counsel and will collaborate with Assistant Attorneys General that support the Department. The staff attorney will also work closely with Department leadership, division and program staff, policymakers, and external partners.

Job duties for this position include providing legal advice on complex local, state, and federal laws; contract and grant negotiation; policy analysis, development, and guidance; overseeing litigation; advising on legal compliance; and other legal projects and needs, as assigned. The position serves as a key resource for legal analysis, policy development, and regulatory compliance across all areas of Department operations. The Staff Attorney also represents the Department's legal interests with the Agency of Human Services, other state departments, the Vermont General Assembly, community partners, and other stakeholders.

Preferred candidates thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy a diverse workload, have broad legal experience, and have a demonstrated commitment to public health or human services.

Vision and Mission

The Department of Health strives to ensure all people and communities in Vermont have equitable opportunities to achieve their highest level of health and well-being. The Department is committed to promoting the physical, mental, and social well-being of people in Vermont by advancing equity, protecting against disease and injury, and preparing for health emergencies.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Department is especially interested in candidates who contribute to our diversity and commitment to fostering an environment of mutual respect, acceptance, and equal opportunity. We are seeking people of all genders and backgrounds who are dedicated to improving economic, social, and health conditions for all Vermonters, and are committed to a vision of Vermont that embraces all people who live here. Our work is best when a rich array of voices is included, and a shared mission and values exist. Black, Indigenous, People of Color, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, persons with disabilities, immigrants, and people from all economic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Schedule

The Department of Health has a hybrid work environment, which includes remote and in-office work.

Requirements

• At least three years of legal experience
• Must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position, including Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, DMV checks, and adult and child abuse registry checks (exceptions apply for current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion, or demotion, and persons exercising re-employment rights)

Pay

Salary and benefits will be based upon qualifications and experience in accordance with the State of Vermont Attorney Pay Plan.

This position (Job Requisition #55152) is open to all State employees and external applicants. For more information, contact Sarah.Gregorek@vermont.gov.