Contracts Attorney - Staff Attorney 1

Job Details

Working Title: Contracts Attorney
Job Class: Staff Attorney 1
Agency: Human Services Dept

• Job ID: 85699
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 04/18/2025
• Closing Date: 05/01/2025
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office
• Division/Unit: DHS - Central Office / Compliance Legal Functions
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00am - 4:30pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $34.18 - $50.69 / hourly; $71,367 - $105,840 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DHS does not participate in E-Verify.

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

As a Staff Attorney 1, you will provide professional legal expertise and services relating to contract development, review, and performance in assigned subject areas and issues at the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Staff Attorney 1 counsels contracts/grants staff and managers in the assigned DHS business area(s) on issues related to contract law, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Responsibilities include but may not be limited to:

• Drafting, reviewing, and approving contracts as to form, enforceability and execution.
• Counseling on contract specific issues, such as intellectual property, indemnification, insurance, and other contract issues.
• Advising on complex competitive solicitation issues to be compliant with state and federal requirements; negotiating contract legal issues with outside counsel.
• Developing and implementing training to DHS staff and managers as requested by the Contracts Attorney Supervisor or Contracts and Legal Compliance (CLC) Director.
• Facilitating and enhancing DHS compliance with the statutory and policy requirements, such as retainage requirements, diversity and inclusionary goals, and ethical obligations.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

**To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month, day and year for each job held.**

• JD degree from an ABA accredited law school;
• Current license and in good standing to practice law in the State of Minnesota; and
• At least 1 year experience as a practicing attorney in, or related to contract law; and
• Demonstrates knowledge and experience conducting legal research, writing and analysis; and providing legal advice.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to spot potential issues in the content of the contract, as well as potential violations of state and federal contracting statutes and regulations.
• Possess some knowledge of state and federal data privacy laws, such as the Minnesota data practices act and the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act, as related to contracts.
• Ability to formulate and present a position in writing or orally is key, as is the ability to learn and understand new and emerging subject matter quickly on demand.
• Knowledge of Indian culture and be capable of providing culturally competent services when assisting with the negotiation of tribal contracts.
• Ability to analyze, synthesize, and conceptualize, working with large amounts of information about multiple issues.
• Knowledge and ability necessary to successfully conduct extremely complex work which includes the analysis and application of federal and state laws, regulations, agency rules, policy, hearing procedures, rules of evidence, codes and case law.
• Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.

Additional Requirements

REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS – DHS will conduct reference checks to verify job-related credentials and a criminal background check prior to appointment.

Application Details

How to Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact John Teske at john.m.teske@state.mn.us.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Alexander Duren at alexander.duren@state.mn.us.

If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Human Services’ ADA Coordinator at 651-431-4945 or DHS_ADA@state.mn.us for assistance.

About Human Services Dept

WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The Minnesota Department of Human Services impacts the lives of 1.7 million people every year, helping them meet their basic needs so they can achieve their highest potential.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Tuition reimbursement
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.