University Attorney

Harvard University’s Office of the General Counsel is responsible for all legal work in furtherance of Harvard’s teaching and research mission. The Office strives to render timely and thoughtful advice on the broad range of legal issues that Harvard leadership, administrators, and faculty confront in their work on behalf of the University. The Office is organized on the model of a small law firm, comprising attorneys with experience in private practice, higher education, and government, who are both generalists capable of handling a wide variety of legal matters and specialists with expertise in key areas. The Office embraces a team culture, collaborating and consulting with colleagues and with outside counsel as appropriate.

Harvard University seeks an attorney experienced in complex and high-profile litigation, governmental and internal investigations and other disputes for the position of University Attorney in the Office of the General Counsel. The University Attorney primarily will be responsible for providing legal counsel on a wide range of litigation, investigations, agency proceedings, other disputes and related matters. In addition to handling and assisting with litigation, investigations and disputes (managing and working with outside counsel), the University Attorney also will advise on related practice areas relevant to educational institutions. Other responsibilities will include policy development, training, and related duties.

JD with a minimum of ten years’ relevant experience at a law firm, in-house, and/or government. Admission to practice in Massachusetts, or willingness to obtain admission to practice within two years.

Strong research, writing, analytical and counseling skills. Ability to balance multiple and competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to communicate well with a broad range of clients and manage and advise on litigation, investigations, disputes and related issues. Strong interpersonal skills, judgment, and empathy. Ability to learn new areas of law quickly and handle a variety of legal matters that may arise at a large research university outside of the disputes practice area. Experience practicing law in Washington, DC a plus.

This position involves a hybrid work schedule (currently three days onsite/two days remote). The Office of the General Counsel may alter this schedule as the office’s needs and circumstances change. Non-local candidates may be considered.

Complying with the office’s work location requirements is a condition of continued employment.

We welcome applicants who bring varied perspectives, experiences, backgrounds, and expertise to advance the work of the department in service to Harvard’s mission.

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.