Job Information
State of Montana Chief Legal Counsel in Helena, Montana
About the Department The Department of Commerce aims to make sure Montana is the best place to work, live and play. We work alongside private industry and local organizations to create jobs, grow businesses, develop affordable housing and improve community infrastructure. (You can learn more about ushere.) About this Position *// The Commerce Director’s Office provides centralized finance, budget, legal, IT and HR services and resources for the Department Divisions and attached boards. This position is the Chief Legal Counsel for the Montana Department of Commerce. The position conducts advanced legal research and investigation into state and federal administrative rules, statutory and case law, practices of other states, etc. to provide comprehensive professional legal support, direction and advice for the effective administration of the Department. This includes legal support for a broad range of areas including local government technical assistance, economic and community development, tourism promotion, housing and health facility financing programs, employment and contract law, accounting and tax law, etc. The position provides legal advice and direction to the Director and other officials on an ongoing basis, which directly affects the administration of the Department. The position is responsible for preparing and litigating cases on behalf of the department in trial and appellate courts, and administrative tribunals; and monitoring, evaluating, drafting, synthesizing and reviewing new and changed legislation and administrative rules.// *This position is open until filled, with a first application review date of December 23, 2024. What are we looking for?__ Education and Experience: * Juris Doctor from ABA accredited law school * At least five years of practical experience in law, strongly desired in land use and planning law * At least five years of practical experience with government contracts and procurement * Admission to the State Bar of Montana; Eligible to be admitted to practice in Federal district courts; Ninth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeal; and the U.S. Supreme Court * Alternate combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis * It would pique our interest if you had previous legal supervisory experience Competencies: /Knowledge of:/ * Concepts and theories of the legal profession, public administration and program management. * Local, state and federal statutory and case law and administrative provisions, hearings procedures, and local government laws * Legal research methods and techniques * Administrative and court processes * State of Montana Legislative process * Contract drafting, and state procurement * State and federal laws related to land use, including general knowledge of local land use policies and regulations in Montana and principles and practices of land use planning including planning, zoning and subdivision. /Ability to:/ * Assess complex issues and determine their impacts * Communicate effectively to a diverse audience * Develop approaches to sensitive issues * Remain calm, professional and respond articulately under pressure * Interpret and apply statutes, codes, case law and precedents * Establish and maintain excellent working relationships with staff from diverse backgrounds * Effectively lead and manage staff, including resolving interpersonal disputes, delivering performance feedback and recognition and development of staff How to apply Apply online by submitting yourresume,cover letter, and three professional business references. References will not be contacted until after interview process is completed and you will be notified when we will be reaching out to them./(Please Note: You do not need to complete the “work experience” or the “education & certifications” portion of the application process in our recruiting system. You only need to upload the requested documentation.)/ Benefits · Lookhereto see the additional benefits! They include: o Work/life Balance o Health Coverage o Retirement plans o Paid Vacation and Sick Leave and Holidays o And more… · Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) –Employmentwith the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF. Lookhereto learn more and see if you may qualify!* * * *Other important information to be aware of * This position requires the successful completion of a criminal background check. * Only online applications are accepted. By applying online, you can receive updates and monitor the status of your application.* * If you fail to upload the requested application documents and/or preference documents, we will notify you via email. Failure to upload these documents after notification will result in your application being removed from consideration.* * This position allows for a hybrid work schedule from a remote location within the State of Montana. Weekly travel to Helena offices will be required. Specific conditions will be outlined as part of the job offer and must adhere to state policy. New Employees may be required to complete training in person before hybrid work schedules begin. Title: Chief Legal Counsel Location: Helena Requisition ID: 24143257