Pennsylvania Department of State - Assistant Counsel

Governor’s Office of General Counsel

​​Assistant Counsel​ (​Attorney 1 or 2​)
​Department of State​

Office of Chief Counsel – ​Harrisburg​

​​The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel (OGC) seeks an experienced attorney with qualifying litigation and/or or administrative law experience to work in the Department of State, Office of Chief Counsel. The position is based out of the North Office Building within the Capitol Complex in downtown Harrisburg. This position is eligible for a hybrid remote/in-office schedule of three days onsite and two days telework. The position will be classified as either an Attorney 1 or 2 depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant. ​

What You’ll Do

This position reports to the Deputy Chief Counsel and serves as dedicated legal counsel to multiple program areas, including the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, the Office of Notaries, Commissions and Legislation, and the State Athletic Commission. Primary duties include: 1. researching, interpreting and applying laws, court decisions and other legal authority; 2. preparing briefs, pleadings, adjudications and other documents in connection with administrative proceedings; 3. providing counsel to clients regarding compliance with the law and proper implementation of the enabling statutes; 4. drafting regulations; 5. making appearances before courts and other tribunals; 6. managing litigation affecting the agency; 7. responding to inquiries from the legislature, the press, and the public; 8. analyzing and drafting legislation; 9. assisting with Right-to-Know Law and related requests; and 10. performing other related duties as required or assigned.

Who We’re Looking For

​​The successful candidate for this position will have demonstrated: (1) solid legal research, analysis and reasoning capabilities; (2) good inter-personal and communication skills; (3) an ability to identify and resolve problems creatively and with professional discretion; (4) an ability and willingness to handle a variety of legal matters both independently and as part of a team; (5) an interest in and experience with litigation; and (6) an ability to interact and function effectively within both the greater legal community and a governmental organization.​

Required Qualifications

Applicants Must:

• Hold a Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school
• Be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in good standing or sat for the Pennsylvania/Universal bar examination in July 2026

Why Join OGC

At OGC, you are not simply reviewing contracts. You are helping shape the economic engine of the Commonwealth.

• Purpose-Driven Practice

Support programs that expand opportunity and strengthen communities statewide.

• Professional Growth

Work alongside experienced government attorneys on complex, high-visibility initiatives.

• Stability with Impact

Public service with real influence on policy, regulation, and economic development.

• Comprehensive Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous paid leave

Excellent health benefits

Retirement plans

To learn more about OGC visit: https://www.ogc.pa.gov and select Careers with OGC.

Apply Today

Submit the following in a single, combined PDF or Word document by ​September 25, 2026​:

• Cover letter expressing interest in this specific position
• Resume
• Writing sample (10-page max)

Attn: Derek Riker
Deputy General Counsel
30 N. 3rd Street, Suite 200
Harrisburg, PA 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: $69,086.00 - $119,844.00 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 Attorney license or took the PA Bar Exam in 7/2026 (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Harrisburg, PA 17120

Salary : $69,086 - $119,844