Pennsylvania Department of Human Services - Assistant Counsel (Harrisburg)

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL (Harrisburg)

ASSISTANT COUNSEL (ATTORNEY 1 or 2)

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks a licensed attorney to advise the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) with respect to general legal matters and litigation. The position will be classified as either an Attorney 1 or 2 depending upon the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant. The position is based in Harrisburg and is eligible for part-time telework with an in-office requirement of three business days per week.

What You’ll Do:

This position represents a professionally rewarding opportunity for an attorney recently admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar. The successful applicant will assist senior level colleagues in providing legal representation, advice and counsel to the Department of Human Services' Office of Income Maintenance, the Bureau of Early Learning Resource Center Operations in the Office of Child Development and Early Learning, the Office of Children, Youth and Families and advise all program offices regarding compliance and with respect to compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The successful applicant will also assist senior level attorneys in administrative proceedings, as well as litigation in local, state, and federal courts. The work generally includes: drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs; conducting legal research; coordinating and overseeing investigations; interviewing and preparing witnesses; and other facets of complete case management.

What We’re Looking For:

This position requires excellent written and oral communications skills, attention to detail and organization, exceptional interpersonal skills, and an ability to foster trust and respect, including creating collaborative and responsive working relationships with colleagues, education professionals, clients, and other members of the public. One to three years of experience gained through a judicial clerkship, a law firm, or other public service entity where focus was on litigation would be ideal.

Why Join OGC?

At OGC, you’re not just practicing law, you’re shaping the future of Pennsylvania. We offer a career filled with purpose, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a difference. Here’s what you can expect:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Top-tier health care options, retirement plans, and generous paid time off.
• Work-Life Balance: Excel in your career while having the time to enjoy your personal life.
• Continuous Learning: A supportive culture that fosters ongoing professional development and advancement.

Joining our team means being part of a respected institution dedicated to legal excellence and public service. The DHS legal office has a strong record of attorney retention, with many attorneys building long and fulfilling careers within the agency. Those who do move on often find new and impactful roles elsewhere within the Commonwealth, benefiting from their experience here. To learn more about OGC’s mission and what it is like to be part of the OGC team, visit www.ogc.pa.gov and Select Careers.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school / or expected May 2026 graduation
• Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar / or participation in the February or July 2026 bar exam.

Apply Today!

Send your letter of interest, resume, and writing sample (no longer than 10 pages) by March 20, 2026, directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of General Counsel, 333 Market Street, 17th Floor, 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 - $117,497.00 per year

Benefits:

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

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

License/Certification:

• PA Bar license (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Harrisburg, PA 17120