Department of Environmental Protection - Assistant Attorney (Harrisburg)

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL

ASSISTANT COUNSEL

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Harrisburg

The Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel seeks a licensed attorney to work as an Assistant Counsel in the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Office of Chief Counsel’s Bureau of Regulatory Counsel in Harrisburg. The position will be classified as either an Attorney 1 or 2 depending on the level of relevant experience possessed by the successful applicant. This position is eligible for part-time telework with an in-office requirement of three business days per week.

What You’ll Do:

The Bureau of Regulatory Counsel supports the Commonwealth’s environmental oversight by advising DEP on the administration of state and federal environmental laws. The successful candidate will:

• Provide legal counsel across DEP programs, including water, air quality, waste management, energy, mining, and more
• Draft regulations and review permitting actions
• Advise on legal issues related to program implementation
• Represent DEP before regulatory bodies and, at times, in state or federal court
• Review responses to Right-to-Know Law requests

You will work collaboratively with DEP leadership and technical staff such as engineers, geologists, chemists, and biologists, translating complex scientific concepts into practical legal guidance.

What We’re Looking For:

The ideal candidate brings a mix of sharp legal skill, sound judgment, and collaborative energy. You’ll stand out if you have:

• Strong legal fundamentals – excellent research, analysis, and reasoning abilities
• Clear and persuasive communication – both written and oral advocacy that lands
• Creative problem-solving skills – especially when navigating complex or sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion
• Versatility and ownership – confidence handling a wide range of legal matters independently and as part of a team
• Relationship-building strength – the ability to work effectively across the legal community and within a government environment
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with a talent for building trust, respect, and strong working relationships with Commonwealth clients
• Sound judgment and a commitment to confidentiality and professionalism

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with environmental law
• Exposure to regulatory matters

Why Join OGC:

Attorneys at OGC perform meaningful public service while developing sophisticated legal expertise in a supportive and collaborative environment. We offer:

• Competitive benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and generous paid leave
• A strong commitment to work-life balance
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and advancement

Learn more about OGC and Careers with OGC at:

Qualifications:

Applicants must:

· Hold a Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school (or graduate by May 2026); and

· Be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in good standing, or plan to sit for the Pennsylvania or Universal Bar Exam by July 2026.

Apply Today!

Send your letter of interest, resume, and writing sample (no longer than 10 pages) by May 15, 2026 , to [email protected], directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, 30 N. Third Street, Suite 200, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101.

OGC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $67,736.00 - $117,497.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• PA Bar License or plan to sit for the bar exam in July 2026 (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Harrisburg, PA 17101