STAFF COUNSEL

TITLE: STAFF COUNSEL

JOB STATUS: ADMNISTRATOR - SUPERVISOR A 260 – FLSA EXEMPT

REPORTS TO: GENERAL COUNSEL

DEPARTMENT: LEGAL

STARTING SALARY: $108, 311

POSITION STATEMENT : Provides professional legal counsel and representation for the Superintendent, Board of Education, administrators, and others on a variety of legal-related matters. Assists the Board and Superintendent in the legal performance of its duties and the fair and just discharge of its obligations to students, staff and Board authorized representatives.

Essential Duties

The statements below are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Provides professional legal counsel and representation for the Superintendent, Board of Education, administrators and others on a variety of legal-related matters.
• Represents the district in court and administrative proceedings, including matters before the Municipal Civil Service Commission, Ohio Department of Education, Ohio Civil Rights Commission, U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Duties include preparation of related documentation, negotiation between parties, conducting trials and hearings, and all other court or hearing appearances to represent most effectively the interests of the school district as those interests are interpreted by the Superintendent/CEO.
• Receives, investigates and responds to complaints filed with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and other administrative agencies.
• Represents the district in workers’ compensation cases
• Reviews and revises district contracts
• Advises on employee discipline and Human Resource matters
• Advises the district on issues of child custody, subpoenas, guardian ad litem and Franklin County Children Services matters
• Works cooperatively with district administrators, staff, parents and other interested parties to identify a fair and workable solution to address issues of concern.
• Provides assistance and consultation to central office administrators, building principals and district staff in interpreting district policies and negotiated agreements and addressing a variety of legal-related matters.
• Maintains current knowledge of governmental regulations and recent court rulings impacting school district operations and management.
• Prepares or oversees completion of required documentation and reports.
  
  

Job Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate in Law.
• Five (5) or more years of related legal experience.
• Current State of Ohio law license.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and local laws and regulations impacting school districts operations and management.
• Knowledge of negotiated labor contracts, procedures, practices, and techniques.
• Knowledge of the school system, processes, functions, environments, etc.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to represent and act as an official spokesperson for the district. The incumbent is also required to effectively communicate with staff, parents, and outside legal counsel in the resolution of legal issues in a tactful, courteous, and respectful manner.
• Analytical ability to evaluate legal issues and develop effective solutions.
• Written and computer skills necessary to maintain various departmental records, documents, and reports .
  
  

Physical/Mental Demands And Work Environment

• Tools/Equipment Use: Desktop PC with keyboard and mouse, laptop, scanner, calculator, software, desk, and adjustable chair.
• Posture: Prolonged sitting and standing; occasional stooping, bending, squatting, kneeling, bending, pushing, pulling and twisting.
• Motion: Frequent repetitive hand motions, including keyboarding and use of a mouse; occasional reaching
• Lifting: Occasional lifting and carrying (less than 10 pounds)
• Environment: Works in an office setting; may require occasional irregular hours and/or prolonged hours.
• Attendance: Regular and punctual attendance at the worksite is required for this position.
• Mental Demands: Maintains emotional control under stress; works with frequent interruptions .
  
  

Columbus City Schools (CCS) is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will receive consideration regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, ancestry, familial status, military status or disability.