Staff Counsel

This is a re-post. If you previously applied, there is no need to re-apply as your application is on file and will be considered.

About the role

The Office of the Director, Legal Unit (OD Legal) serves as the general counsel’s office for DIR and provides advice and representation to the DIR Director, department leadership, and division chiefs in the performance of their statutory functions. Under the direction of the Chief Counsel and the Assistant Chief Counsels, Attorney IIIs represent the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations, the Department, and division chiefs and managers in a variety of subject areas within the responsibility and jurisdiction of the Department, broadly in the labor and employment area.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Director of DIR in workers’ compensation cases involving trust funds administered by the Director (SIBTF, UEBTF, and DWD).
• Represent the Department in internal DIR personnel and labor and employment matters.
• Provide legal advice and representation in public works, prevailing wages, Public Records Act, public contracting, privacy, litigation, and other matters concerning a wide variety of legal issues that may arise in the operation of the Department.
• Analyze pending legislation, draft and/or comment on proposed regulations, and serve as primary and/or in-house counsel in civil litigation.
• Draft legal briefs, memorandums, and correspondence on a regular basis.
• Appear in workers’ compensation administrative proceedings and other civil and administrative court proceedings, as assigned.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with opposing counsel, clients, stakeholders, colleagues, and the public.
• Travel for short durations (one to two days) as required.

Requirements

• Active membership in the California State Bar.
• At least five years of legal experience in the practice of law following admission to the bar.
• Ability to work with a high level of independence while receiving support and supervision from OD Legal Assistant Chief Counsels and the Chief Counsel.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Working Conditions

• Position is located at: 1515 Clay St, Suite 701, Oakland, CA 94612.
• Usual business hours are Monday through Friday, with flexibility in specific work schedule determined after hire.
• Expected to work all hours necessary to accomplish assignments, generally averaging a 40-hour week, with occasional longer hours.
• Eligible for some telework with in-person attendance based on operational needs.
• Work environment is office-based, with extensive computer use for drafting, research, email communication, file review, and training.

Application Requirements

• State standard application form (STD 678), completed in full.
• Resume.
• Cover letter addressing work experience and interest in the position.
• Recent legal writing sample of your own work product.

To be considered, applicants must be reachable on an employment list, have transfer eligibility, or have reinstatement eligibility. To gain employment list eligibility, visit the exam bulletin.