Department of Labor & Industry - Assistant Counsel

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL

ASSISTANT COUNSEL

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR & INDUSTRY, OFFICE OF CHIEF COUNSEL

STATE WORKERS’ INSURANCE FUND DIVISION

(SCRANTON/HARRSIBURG)

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks a licensed attorney to serve as Assistant Counsel in the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Office of Chief Counsel, State Workers’ Insurance Fund Division. Priority will be given to candidates based in Scranton though candidates based in Harrisburg may also apply. The position will be classified as either an Attorney 1, 2, or 3 depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful respondent(s). An Attorney 1 is considered to have limited legal experience or exposure to a workers’ compensation law practice, and an Attorney 3 is considered to have significant litigation experience and a well-demonstrated understanding of workers’ compensation law.

What You’ll Do:

The Office of Chief Counsel is responsible for, among other services, providing legal support, representation, and advice to L&I, including the State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF). SWIF is an enterprise fund of the Commonwealth created under the Workers’ Compensation Act that exists to offer workers’ compensation insurance to Pennsylvania employers, including employers who are not able to secure their workers’ compensation liabilities through the commercial insurance market. Attorneys representing SWIF serve as in-house counsel and their duties include providing legal advice on all aspects of insurance underwriting and claims handling.

SWIF attorneys research and file workers’ compensation petitions on behalf of SWIF and its insureds, answer petitions, represent SWIF before the Board of Claims and in Commonwealth Court, oversee and manage outside counsel, handle SWIF’s subrogation and Supersedeas Fund Reimbursement claims, and asses and analyze underwriting files to address audit and other issues, and ensure SWIF’s compliance with the Workers’ Compensation Act, the United States Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, and the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act.

What We’re Looking For:

The work requires attorneys who are exceedingly detail oriented, possess excellent analytical, organizational and writing skills and are proficient in litigating before civil and administrative tribunals. Knowledge of workers’ compensation law is strongly preferred but not required provided that the candidate otherwise has a genuine interest, good work ethic, and solid litigation and organizational skills.

The successful applicant for this position should be interested in workers’ compensation law and will be able to demonstrate: (1) at least 3-5 years of legal experience, with prior public sector experience preferred; (2) strong legal research, reasoning, analytical, and writing abilities; (3) independent thinking and proficiency in persuasive brief writing; (4) attentiveness to detail and proficiency in the use of spreadsheets; (5) good work habits, including speed and efficiency; and (6) effective interpersonal and communication skills, including oral presentation. The position requires the exercise of confidentiality, independent judgment, and understanding.

Why Join OGC?

Working as an attorney with the OGC offers a unique and fulfilling career opportunity where you can make a significant impact on the people of Pennsylvania. Employees enjoy a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters professional growth and development. This role not only allows you to contribute to the public good but also provides ample opportunities to hone your legal skills in a collaborative setting.

In addition to meaningful work, the OGC offers:

· Competitive benefits package, including excellent health care options, retirement plans, and generous paid time off;

· Work-life balance that ensures that you can excel professionally while also enjoying time for personal pursuits; and,

· Continuous Learning promoting continuous learning and professional advancement, making it an ideal place for both new and experienced lawyers to thrive.

Joining our team means being part of a respected institution dedicated to legal excellence and public service. To learn more about OGC’s mission and what it is like to be part of the OGC team, visit our website and select Careers with OGC at https://www.ogc.pa.gov.

Qualifications:

· Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school.

· Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar

To Apply:

Send a letter of interest, resume, and writing sample (ten pages maximum) no later than October 31, 2025, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, 30 North Third Street, Suite 200, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101.

OGC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $67,736.00 - $146,504.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Scranton, PA 18503