Performs moderately complex (journey-level) attorney work for the Texas Ethics Commission (“Commission”) administering and enforcing state ethics laws. Work involves responding to telephone, written, and in-person inquiries from the public regarding the application of laws under the Commission’s jurisdiction. Work requires researching and interpreting laws and regulations, advisory opinions, and other legal precedents and examining, preparing, and drafting legal documents. Work may also require analysis of legislation during legislative sessions. Works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

SPECIFIC JOB FUNCTIONS:

Provides legal information and guidance in response to a large amount of telephone, written, and in-person inquiries from the public and the regulated community, including ·candidates for and holders of public office at all levels in the State of Texas, government officers and employees, lobbyists, and political committees.

·Advises Commission board and staff on legal matters and the interpretation and application of Commission laws and other state and federal laws.

·Performs legal research and prepares legal memoranda on regulatory matters, including briefs, opinions, and motions.

·Drafts rules, advisory opinions, forms, instructions, and guides, and may draft notices for the Texas Register.

·Makes presentations to the Commission board, groups regulated by the Commission, and the general public.

·May research and analyze legislation, and communicate with or testify before members and staff of the Texas Legislature, during legislative sessions.

·May assist in reviewing and processing public information requests and requesting rulings under the Public Information Act.

·Performs related work as assigned.

WORK EXPECTATIONS:

Must be able to:

·Regularly, reliably, and punctually attend work.

·Responsibly handle sensitive and highly confidential information and situations.

·Work extended hours as necessary.

·Travel occasionally for work assignments and training.

·Show flexibility and adaptability toward changes in assignments and work schedules.

·Adhere to the agency’s internal management policies and procedures.

·Exhibit work behaviors consistent with agency core values.

·Telework and flexible schedule available, subject to agency needs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed in a standard office environment and requires:

·Normal cognitive abilities including the ability to learn, recall, and apply certain practices and policies.

·Marginal or corrected visual and auditory requirements.

·Constant use of personal computers, copiers, printers, and telephones.

·Ability to work under deadlines, as a team member, and in direct contact with others.

RELATED MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY CODES:
Veterans, Reservists, or Guardsmen with a MOS or additional duties that fall in the fields of 27A Judge Advocate General, 250X Judge Advocate General Corps, LG10 or 04 Legal, 4410 Master of Law (General), and 44 Legal services or other related fields pertaining to the minimum experience requirement may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are encouraged to apply. Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_Legal.pdf

E-VERIFY:
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

H-1B VISA SPONSORSHIP

We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.

BENEFITS

The State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Benefits include:
• Retirement Plan • Paid Group Health & Life Insurance for employees
• Paid Holidays • Paid Vacation Leave
• Paid Sick Leave • Longevity Pay
• Dental • Vision
• Dependent Optional Life Insurance • Voluntary AD&D Insurance
• Dependent Health & Life Insurance • Health & Dependent care flexible spending accounts

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications:

·Minimum 2 years of legal experience.

·Graduation from an accredited law school with a J.D. (Juris Doctor) or L.L.B. (Bachelor or Laws) degree.

·Must possess a license to practice law in the State of Texas.

·Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.

Preferred Qualifications:

·Experience in providing legal advice to government officials or the general public.

·Knowledge of the laws under the jurisdiction of the Commission.

·Experience in administrative law

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

·Excellent legal research and writing skills.

·Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

·Ability to prepare briefs, conduct research, summarize findings, interpret and apply laws, use legal reference materials, and communicate effectively.

·Ability to multi-task and work independently under moderate supervision.

·Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with co-workers, agency staff, and external contacts.

·Ability to work effectively in a professional team environment.

·Strong public speaking skills.

·Proficiency in Microsoft Office and related electronic tools

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, OR LICENSURE:

·Must be actively licensed to practice law in the State of Texas