Attorney I-DWS

Attorney I-DWS

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Benefits Eligibility – This position is eligible for a full benefits package.
Salary – $$39.41 - $$59.22 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site Recruiter – Camie Clark | [email protected] | 801-526-4353
Application Deadline – 11/30/2026*

*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Key Responsibilities

The Office of General Counsel of the Department of Workforce Services seeks an experienced attorney to join a small team of in-house counsel. This position is based in Salt Lake City; however, hybrid schedule telework opportunities may be available, provided client needs are met.

The Office of General Counsel represents and advises agency executive leadership, agency divisions, and several public bodies supported by the agency, in all matters. This may include providing legal opinions and counsel to ensure compliance with federal and state law; reviewing contracts, grants, and other legal documents; drafting administrative rules and agency policy; representing the agency in administrative proceedings and in public meetings; and representing the agency in civil matters, including debt collection. Department divisions include Eligibility Services, Office of Child Care, Office of Homeless Services, Refugee Services, State Office of Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Workforce Development, and Workforce Research and Analysis.

The successful applicant will have sophisticated and advanced legal writing skills and the ability to communicate clearly, concisely and effectively. Preference will be given to applicants with experience advising executive leadership and representing governmental entities. The ability to learn novel computer applications is essential as navigating agency specific computer applications is required.

Membership in good standing in the Utah State Bar is required. Infrequent travel may be required as in-house counsel may need to engage in legal proceedings, meetings, and training opportunities throughout the State.

As part of this application process, you will be asked to submit a 5- to 10-page legal writing sample. Applicants who do not provide a writing sample will not be considered.

Example of Duties
An employee in this position may perform the following tasks:

• Provide consultation, make recommendations, and give appropriate legal advice to executive leadership, agency divisions, and related public bodies.
• Receive, research, and respond to legal questions. Conduct legal research and analysis, gather evidence and prepare concise recommendations based upon facts, interpretations of law, and compliance with state and federal standards.
• Write or draft correspondence, reports, documents, administrative orders, or other written materials.
• Review contracts, grants, and data sharing agreements for compliance.
• Prepare cases by conducting legal research and gathering evidence. Facilitate resolution of civil and administrative actions. Represent the agency at formal or informal hearings. Present written and oral argument on matters before any type of court, judge, or adjudicator.
• Take administrative and civil legal action against violators of statutes and rules, including enforcement of civil judgments. Conduct conferences with parties, including self-represented parties, negotiate settlements, and attend court appearances.
• May be required to travel to various court locations and stay overnight.

Qualifications

The model applicant for this position is someone who possesses the following:

• Experience providing general legal counsel to a governmental entity or to senior level management.
• Firm understanding of the Utah Administrative Procedures Act, and the procedural and evidentiary rules for both administrative proceedings and civil litigation in Utah.
• Working knowledge of the Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act and rulemaking procedures.
• Working knowledge of the Open and Public Meetings Act and the Utah Public Officers' and Employees' Ethics Act.
• Beyond proficient legal analysis skills, including the interpretation and application of case law, statutes, rules, and regulations.
• The ability to write clearly and concisely, while maintaining legal accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to meet the highest ethical standards and standards of professionalism.
• A Juris Doctorate and active membership in the Utah State Bar are required.

***Please note a 5 to 10 page writing sample must be submitted as a part of your application. You will receive an email after your submission to request the wring sample***

About the Role

Location –
140 E 300 S
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84111
United States
Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – B - Competitive Career Service

Why You Should Join Our Team In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency The mission of Workforce Services is to strengthen Utah's communities by supporting the economic stability and quality of our workforce. Today, more than 2,200 Workforce Services employees assist individuals in preparing for and finding jobs, meeting workforce needs of Utah businesses, administering temporary assistance, and providing economic data and analysis. Through a collaborative approach, the department has served millions of Utahns and has become a leader on several statewide initiatives. These include intergenerational poverty, homelessness, affordable housing, supporting refugees, helping rural communities, serving veterans and individuals with disabilities, and getting Utahns trained and back to work. To learn more about Workforce Services, click here.

EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.