Deputy General Counsel

52.09 - $78.13 Hourly

108,338 - $162,506 Annually

This position is a Pay Band LJ

Posting Details

Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of the closing date.

All positions at the public education department are based in Santa Fe however some may operate through our Albuquerque office based on home address and space availability.

MISSION : EQUITY, EXCELLENCE AND RELEVANCE - The New Mexico Public Education Department partners with educators, communities, and families to ensure that ALL students are healthy, secure in their identity, and holistically prepared for college, career, and life.

VISION : ROOTED IN OUR STRENGTHS - Students in New Mexico are engaged in a culturally and linguistically responsive educational system that meets the social, emotional, and academic needs of ALL students.

The NMPED Office of the General Counsel is a team of professionals advancing the mission and objectives of the NMPED by delivering legal services of the highest quality.

We strive for openness, accessibility, respect for all people and integrity while providing sound judgment and constructive advice. We are committed to serving and earning the public¿s trust.

We assist in legal matters affecting New Mexico Public Education, such as providing assistance in developing and amending contracts, final decisions regarding educator license complaints and investigations; Legal appeals and litigation support.

Why does the job exist?

The program oversight for this position includes being responsible for the management within the Office of General Counsel under the direction of the General Counsel. This includes management of the legal matters involving the agency, including in the areas of education, personnel, and public records, litigation, and other similar legal matters. This includes oversight over matters involving the New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation as it involves the New Mexico Public Education Department as a statutory division of the PED. It involves oversight of matters involving educator misconduct and investigator work performed towards just matters.

How does it get done?

Key responsibilities for this position include supervision of approximately seven attorneys and support staff, as well as review of the work performed within the Office of General Counsel. Key responsibilities includes providing high level legal services such as advice, research, writing, and document preparation and review as received or assigned; providing legal guidance within, and on behalf of, the PED, maintaining high level of customer service while doing so; maintaining internal systems, supports, reporting and encouragement for OGC direct reports and staff overall; and working in close coordination with General Counsel on important / sensitive legal requests & assignment of responsibilities.

Who are the customers?

The job is done for the Secretary of Public Education, the PED¿s executive leadership team, and upper-level management within the agency.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for this position will have demonstrated knowledge and experience in employment law, education law, and in acting as a supervisory within a state government agency.

Minimum Qualification

Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited school of law and six (6) years of experience in the practice of law. Must be licensed as an attorney by the Supreme Court of New Mexico or qualified to apply for limited practice license (Rules 15-301-1 and 15-301.2 NMRA). For more information on limited practice licenses, please visit http : / / nmexam.org / limited-license /

Employment Requirements

All Attorney classifications must be and remain licensed as an attorney, in good standing, by the Supreme Court of New Mexico, or licensed as an attorney and in good standing by the highest court of another state and eligible pursuant to the limited license provisions (See Rules 15-301.1 and 15-301.2 NMRA).

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office setting : late hours, weekends, on-call and callback work may be required. Will be exposed to regular periods of video display terminal and keyboard usage and stressful situations. Travel is required. Possible exposure to irate clientele. Incumbent will work under stress and frequent time constraints.

Supplemental Information

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Agency Contact Information : Geoffrey Tager Email

For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.

Bargaining Unit Position

This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Salary : $108,338 - $162,506