Associate University Counsel/University Counsel

Why Work at BYU  

As the flagship higher education institution of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University (BYU) strives to be among the exceptional universities in the world. At BYU, we are devoted to our faith and to our students. We take an active role in the University's Mission: "To assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life.”

 

Our unique mission, deeply rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, provides countless ways to serve and make an impact. This, along with our remarkable culture of belonging, weekly devotionals, and endless opportunities for learning and growth—all situated within a beautiful and historic campus—make it hard to imagine a more inspiring place to work.

Job Description

Associate University Counsel/University Counsel

The position of Associate University Counsel/University Counsel—Continuing Education provides a wide range of legal services to BYU, primarily to the Division of Continuing Education, on matters and processes relating to continuing education activities. Associate University Counsel/University Counsel—Continuing Education conducts legal research and training, creates tools and resources to enhance legal compliance, reviews and assesses the sufficiency of significant legal documents, and advises university administration and other university personnel on legal matters.

What You Will Do In This Position

Division of Continuing Education: Transactional

• Provide legal counsel and services regarding formation and operation of business entities in various jurisdictions for the conduct of continuing education programs and activities.
• Provide legal counsel and services in the area of contract negotiation, preparation, and management, including in connection with collaboration agreements and educational partnerships, lease agreements, employment agreements, and independent contractor engagements.
• Advise and assist in preparation of forms, releases, contracts, and other similar documents for students, participants, and customers of continuing education programs and activities.
  
  

Division of Continuing Education: Regulatory Compliance

• Provide legal counsel on compliance with federal, state, and local laws applicable to online learning. programs, including rules and guidelines promulgated by the United States Department of Education and state education agencies.
• Provide legal counsel on compliance with federal, state, and local laws regarding education programs, including both secondary and post-secondary educational programs and youth camps and activities.
• Interact with government officials and employees on behalf of the university.
• Provide training, as appropriate, for university personnel.
• Serve as legal advisor to state authorization review committee.
  
  

Division of Continuing Education

• Provide a wide range of other legal, policy, and business counsel and services for activities and programs in the Division of Continuing Education.
  
  

General Legal Counsel

• Advise, assist, and act on behalf of the general counsel in providing legal services to university clients.
  
  

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

• Provide legal counsel and services regarding resolution of student, participant, and customer disputes.
• Manage and negotiate resolution of student, participant, and customer disputes with opposing counsel.
• As directed by the general counsel and/or deputy general counsel, assist in representing the university in pre-litigation and litigation matters in federal, state, and local judicial and agency courts and tribunals.
• As directed by the general counsel and/or deputy general counsel, assist in representing the university in arbitration, mediation, and regulatory and agency investigations.
• Oversee compliance with obligations to produce records in response to subpoenas or other lawful requests for records.
  
  

Minimum Education/experience Required

What qualifies you for this role:

• A J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Utah State Bar within one year of starting work.
• At least 5 years of relevant legal experience.
  
  

Preferred

• Strong academic credentials, a background in higher education law or other similar work, and experience working in a complex organization are preferred.
  
  

Skills, Abilities, Knowledge, Licenses, Certifications

• A firm commitment to the mission of BYU, proven maturity, and good judgment (required).
• Outstanding oral and written communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills (required).
• Proficiency in common computer programs and web-based applications (required).
• Outstanding problem-solving and research skills (required).
• The ability to work closely and effectively with high-level university administrators (required).
• The ability to stay current with legal developments—statutory, regulatory, and case law (required).
• Participation in local and national level discussions regarding developments in higher education and their strategic implications for colleges and universities (required).
• Current licensing from the Utah State Bar and other applicable state licensing agencies (required).
• Working knowledge of the university’s structure and operations (preferred).
  
  

Additional Comments

The most challenging aspects of this position relate to the constantly changing and increasingly complex legal environment for higher education. Whole bodies of law applicable to the university are constantly being developed and revised. Moreover, the nature and business of higher education is changing and adapting to the use of new information sharing technology. Universities and colleges increasingly have need for competent legal expertise that is current and anticipates the implications for the university of new developments in the law.

This position is also governed by a memorandum of understanding between The Office of the General Counsel and the Division of Continuing Education.

What We Offer In Return

In addition to our competitive pay structure, this position comes with fantastic benefits, including:

• 401k. BYU automatically contributes 8% at no cost to you. Additionally, if you contribute 5%, BYU adds an additional 4% (Rehires may qualify for different retirement plans)
• Excellent work-life balance: 13 paid holidays 22 days paid vacation 12 sick days, accrued annually
• Employee assistance program, available to the employee and all members of their household
• Tuition benefits for employees and eligible family members
• Access to athletic facilities
• Excellent medical/dental benefits
• Short/long-term disability benefits
• Paid parental and maternity leave
• Wellness Program
• Free on-campus parking
• Free UTA passes for employees, spouses, and qualified dependents
• Discounts at the BYU Store and for many events at BYU
  
  

Compensation Levels

Pay Grade 56: $106,643 - $138,497.00

Pay Grade 57: $130,739 - $169,790.50

Compensation Range

Actual compensation based on education and experience

$106,643.00 - $138,497.00

Required Documents

All Staff positions require a resume.

Refer to the Job Posting for any additional required documents.

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints must hold and be worthy to hold a current temple recommend.

Brigham Young University is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

Brigham Young University (BYU) is widely recognized not just for its world-class education, but for its deep commitment to inspired religious values. Gathered together in a Christ-centered atmosphere, BYU employees are a vital part of a community of belonging, where we value the experiences, perspectives, and talents of each individual. If you share in our devotion to faith and to excellence, we have a place for you here at BYU!