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The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Office of General Counsel is currently seeking a dynamic, collegial, and collaborative Assistant General Counsel to join our team. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting SDSU’s legal needs by providing guidance on a wide range of legal issues, including litigation, employment law, compliance, and policies impacting the university community. This role is located in Brookings , South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.

The South Dakota State University Office of General Counsel coordinates and provides efficient and effective legal and other related services to university employees on matters that involve or affect the university, while upholding the university’s core values.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: The Assistant General Counsel will provide legal guidance and representation in a wide range of matters, including administrative and legal proceedings, litigation, and employment law. Responsibilities include serving as lead counsel in litigation cases, advising SDSU Human Resources on employment-related issues, and assisting with EEOC, DOL, and DOJ inquiries and investigations. The Assistant General Counsel will also review, draft, and analyze legal documents, provide legal and factual research, and support the development of policies and procedures. Additionally, this role will involve managing subpoenas and public records requests, assisting with grievance processes, and handling a variety of higher education legal matters, including Title IX, Clery Act, and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as directed by the SDSU VP and General Counsel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) and Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school completed by date of application;
• At least three years of successful experience as a practicing attorney;
• Member in good standing of the South Dakota Bar, or licensure with the South Dakota Bar within 12 months of hire required;
• Demonstrated strong critical thinking and problem solving skills;
• Strong legal research, analytical, and writing skills;
• Ability to digest state and federal requirements and limitations/opportunities and findings into cohesive and succinct documents;
• Strong communication skills with all constituencies, coupled with the tenacity and ability to manage a significant caseload across multiple areas of law, including handling assigned appearances in proceedings;
• Strict adherence to deadlines, with a self-starter mentality and strong independent work skills;
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with proficiency in MS Office and the ability to use various office equipment and software; and
• A valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience practicing law in higher education, government practice, compliance, litigation, administrative or civil actions, employment or related area.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.