Associate Counsel or Senior Counsel

*Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.

*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:

Responsible for providing legal assistance to the corporation on all aspects of its activities and functions as needed.

WORK PERFORMED:

Based on the experience of the selected candidate, and based on the needs of ESD, the selected candidate will represent and advise Empire State Development and the New York State Department of Economic   Development (together “ESD”) on a variety of matters potentially including but not limited to:  

• Drafting and negotiating all legal documents necessary for implementation of ESD real estate and economic development projects;
• Provide counsel and strategic advice to ESD’s real estate development and to other ESD departments and ESD management as needed; 
• Freedom of Information Law requests; 
• Legislative Drafting; 
• Corporate Governance including reviewing, drafting and interpreting Director’s Materials and Resolutions; and
• Other legal work as requested by ESD’s General Counsel.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Requirements: Education level required: J.D. plus Admission to New York State Bar
For Senior Counsel Title: Minimum of eight years of general legal experience in one or more of the follow areas preferred: real estate, financing and/or other corporate transaction.  Experience working in government or as outside counsel to governmental entities preferred.   

For Associate Counsel Title: Minimum of four years of general legal experience in one or more of the follow areas preferred: real estate, financing and/or other corporate transaction.  Experience working in government or as outside counsel to governmental entities preferred.   

Knowledge Required: Excellent verbal and written communication skills and negotiation skills.  

A minimum of 50% in-office presence is required.