Deputy General Counsel

Job Posting Title

Deputy General Counsel

Agency

265 DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Supervisory Organization

Department of Education–Oliver Hodge Education Building

Job Posting End Date (Continuous if Blank)

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the posting end date above.

Estimated Appointment End Date (Continuous if Blank)

Full/Part-Time

Full time

Job Type

Regular

Compensation

Based on education and experience

Job Description

ABOUT US

At the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), we go beyond merely offering jobs – we actively seek out extraordinary individuals to join our team. As the primary agency entrusted with overseeing K-12 public education in Oklahoma, we are steadfastly devoted to making a meaningful impact on the districts and students we serve. Our exceptional team at OSDE is renowned for its commitment to superior customer service, innovation, and unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future for students across the state. We work hand-in-hand with over 500 school districts and maintain a close partnership with the legislature, ensuring that each Oklahoma student receives the exceptional education they deserve.  If you're in search of a fulfilling career that allows you to make a profound difference in the lives of children, you've arrived at the right place. Join us in our mission to empower students and elevate the standard of education in Oklahoma. For further insights into OSDE, please visit our website at www.sde.ok.gov.

JOB SUMMARY

The Office of Legal Services offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to make a meaningful impact.  The newly redefined Deputy General Counsel position is a unique opportunity for individuals who are passionate about bettering public education in Oklahoma and are adept at researching and analyzing state, federal, and administrative laws. The ideal candidate will possess a strong performance record, a keen interest in process improvement, and a commitment to fostering a culture of openness, professional growth, and an elite reputation. A highly motivated, detail-oriented individual with exceptional research and writing skills and a commitment to improving public education in Oklahoma will excel in this position.

Please note: this role does not allow for any form of remote work, including telecommuting or hybrid arrangements. The nature of this position necessitates a consistent in-person presence. Prospective candidates should be aware that the responsibilities associated with this role require physical presence at the designated workplace in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This position has been designated as executive management and is exempted from the civil service rules established by the Civil Service and Human Capital Modernization Act.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university;

• Active Oklahoma Bar Association member in good standing;

• At least two (2) years of experience in employment law, school law, administrative law, and/or legislation drafting and review.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior administrative hearing or courtroom experience.

• Familiarity with Child Nutrition, Teacher Certification, Special Education, and/or Administrative Rulemaking.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without sponsorship now or in the future;

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check;

• Must possess a valid driver’s license from a U.S. state or territory to perform necessary job-related travel.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Research & Writing: Ability to conduct in-depth legal research on a wide range of legal issues related to public education in Oklahoma, e.g., child nutrition, special education, teacher certification, state aid, school safety, federal programs, pending legislations and administrative rulemaking; including analyzing state, federal, and administrative laws, regulations, and policie