What are the responsibilities and job description for the PA Department of Transportation - Deputy Chief Counsel position at Governor's Office of General Counsel?
GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
Deputy Chief Counsel (Attorney 4 or 5 Supervisory)
Driver & Vehicle Services Division
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Office of Chief Counsel
(Harrisburg Preferred)
Are you an experienced attorney ready to step into a meaningful leadership role? The Department of Transportation’s Office of Chief Counsel, within the Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel, is seeking a Deputy Chief Counsel (Attorney 4 or 5 Supervisor) to lead and support a collaborative legal team handling impactful transportation matters across the Commonwealth.
The position is based in Harrisburg at the Riverfront Office Complex, with a hybrid schedule of three days in office. Candidates in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh will be considered if able to commute to Harrisburg multiple days per week. Salary is commensurate with experience, and the role operates with significant independence under the supervision of the Executive Deputy Chief Counsel.
What You’ll Do:
You will lead a dynamic team of PennDOT attorneys who stand at the intersection of law, mobility, and public safety. Together, you will represent PennDOT in the Court of Common Pleas and the Appellate Courts, handling a wide spectrum of driver licensing and motor vehicle matters that shape how millions of Pennsylvanians move through their daily lives.
This Division carries a substantial and fast paced litigation portfolio, offering the opportunity to guide strategy, sharpen advocacy, and mentor talented attorneys in high impact work. Beyond the courtroom, you will serve as a trusted legal advisor to PennDOT, navigating the application of state and federal law to issues that range from well-established regulatory frameworks to cutting edge questions involving emerging technologies.
What We’re Looking For:
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
· Proven supervisory experience with strong leadership skills and a genuine commitment to building and supporting a high performing, team oriented practice.
· Significant experience drafting and reviewing appellate briefs, with a sharp eye for legal analysis and persuasive advocacy.
Success in this role also requires intellectual curiosity and a readiness to engage with complex and evolving areas of law. The position calls for:
· exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail;
· the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced environment;
· outstanding written and oral communication skills are essential; and,
· an ability to work effectively with a diverse group of clients and colleagues, build trust, and foster strong collaborative relationships across all levels of the organization is critical.
Why Join OGC
Attorneys at OGC perform meaningful public service while developing sophisticated legal expertise in a supportive and collaborative environment. We offer:
- Competitive benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and generous paid leave
- A strong commitment to work-life balance
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development and advancement
Learn more about OGC and 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
Interested attorneys should submit a cover letter setting forth their interest in the position, a resume, and a writing sample (no more than 10 pages) not later than April 3, 2026, directed to:
Derek Riker
Deputy Chief of Staff
30 North Third Street, Suite 200
Harrisburg, PA 17101
OGC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as it seeks to recruit, develop, and retain qualified individuals 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 category protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $100,773.00 - $178,602.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- PA Bar License (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Harrisburg, PA 17104
Salary : $100,773 - $178,602