General Counsel

Job OverviewThis position is in the DC Department of Employment Services (DOES), Office of the General Counsel (OGC). The General Counsel serves as the agency’s chief legal advisor, providing strategic and operational legal guidance on all matters affecting the agency’s programs and operations.DOES administers programs and policies that strengthen the District’s workforce, including the District’s Unemployment Insurance program, workers’ compensation system, and First Source program.ResponsibilitiesAs the General Counsel of DOES, you will serve as the principal legal advisor to the Director of DOES and the executive leadership team on all legal, policy, and strategic issues. Lead and manage the Office of the General Counsel; supervise staff attorneys, legal assistants, and interns. Provide authoritative legal counsel on unemployment insurance law and policy, including eligibility determinations, benefits administration, appeals, and compliance with U.S. Department of Labor requirements.Oversee legal strategy and litigation in unemployment insurance matters, First Source Law enforcement, wage and hour cases, and other agency programs, coordinating with the Mayor’s Office of Legal Counsel and the Office of the Attorney General. Direct the development, review, and negotiation of federal and local grants, including ensuring compliance with federal cost principles, Uniform Guidance, and District procurement regulations.QualificationsMust possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) at the time of appointment. At least six (6) years of post J.D. professional legal experience, including experience providing legal advice to senior executives or government officials, managing or supervising a legal team, and leading complex legal operations.Substantive expertise in unemployment insurance law and regulations is highly desirable. Experience in grants management and federal funding compliance preferred. Knowledge of First Source Law or similar local hiring statutes, and familiarity with federal and District workforce development policies, is strongly preferred.Licenses and CertificationsMust be an active member in good standing of the District of Columbia Bar or have the ability to waive in and be admitted within 360 days of appointment.What We OfferMedical insuranceVision insurancePaid paternity leavePaid maternity leaveWe are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-10-06