Agency Legal Counsel

Are you a litigator who thrives at the intersection of complex constitutional law and public safety? The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) is seeking an Agency Legal Counsel who is more than just an advisor—we need a strategic protector of the agency’s mission. In this role, you won’t just be managing a caseload; you’ll be navigating the intricate legal landscape of a multi-facility correctional system, providing the critical counsel that ensures justice, safety, and operational excellence for our staff and those in our custody. If you are ready to apply your expertise to work that truly matters for the State of Nebraska, your next challenge starts here.

Information about the Department can be found at: www.corrections.nebraska.gov. For more information call 402-471-2654. For Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations, please contact Megan Jones at [email protected].

DUTIES

• Directs and manages the entire legal department and all legal functions within an agency/system. Supervises assigned staff engaged in providing professional legal and technical support services; performs related work as assigned.

• Administers personnel policies and procedures by supervising and evaluating the work of agency attorneys; and recommending personnel actions related to employee selection, disciplinary procedures, performance, leaves, grievances, work schedules, and assignments.

• Provides legal services relating to legislation by guiding and participating in the drafting of legislation; evaluating current or pending legislation; and making recommendations regarding legislation.

• Confers with representatives of the judicial, legislative, and executive branches of government to provide information on issues or activities and to obtain necessary support for agency priorities and goals.

• Serves as the primary legal representative for NDCS at State Tort Claims Board hearings.

• Develops and updates an agency’s legal services policies and procedures, as directed. Participates in senior level legal policy making within the agency.

Requirements / Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Five years of experience practicing law and providing legal services such as preparing and trying cases, advising clients, and/or interpreting laws and/or administrative policies, including one year of supervising other attorneys.

• Legal Requirements: In accordance with Section 7-101, Nebraska Revised, Reissued Statutes of I943, incumbents in this class must be admitted to the Nebraska Bar.

Preferred Qualifications: Leadership experience, experience providing strategic legal advice, experience in public-sector or administrative law, ability to manage and prioritize a diverse legal portfolio, strong communication skills, high level of professional judgement, integrity and discretion.

Other: Valid driver’s license required. Applicant accepting a job offer must pass the following pre-employment exams in this order: medical exam, and at a randomly announced time, pass a drug test. Must successfully complete the fully paid NE Corrections Training Program.