Associate General Counsel

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

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Summary:

American University (AU), Washington, DC, is seeking an Associate General Counsel as part of the Office of General Counsel (“OGC”), a fast paced, high volume workplace that provides legal services to the university. The Associate General Counsel provides advice and counsel to university leaders on a range of legal issues, using sound legal judgement, diligence and integrity. The Associate General Counsel works independently on routine legal matters while recognizing issues of institutional importance, taking proactive steps to resolve issues while keeping the Vice President and General Counsel (VPGC) appropriately informed. Effectively communicates to clients by clearly explaining practical solutions for addressing problems, appropriately balancing legal considerations with institutional programmatic and policy objectives.

The current focus of this position is labor and employment law. Experience in other legal practice areas affecting a private nonprofit university are helpful. 

This position reports directly to the Vice President and General Counsel and independently manages a diverse portfolio of client matters. The Associate General Counsel does not directly supervise any OGC administrative staff but will assign and oversee the completion of tasks or assignments given to the OGC legal and administrative staff.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts legal research.

• Engages in policy development.

• Drafts and reviews legal documents.

• Responds to complaints, demands, and subpoenas directed to the university.

• Represents the university in negotiations and before boards, commissions, and courts as necessary.

• Assists the VPGC with the coordination and supervision of outside counsel.

Competencies:

• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

• Thinking Broadly.

• Developing Plans.

• Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

• Supporting Coworkers.

• Collaborative Leadership.

• Prioritizing and Organizing.

• Effective Communication.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• Full-time.

• 35 hours/week.

Salary Range:

• $178,000 - $180,000 annually.

Required Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctorate.

• Minimum of five years as a practicing attorney.

• Must be admitted in and in good standing in DC or other state bar. DC Bar admission required within 12 months of appointment.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Experience with the higher education or non-profit sector.

• Experience in labor and employment or immigration.

• Experience in legal practice areas affecting a private nonprofit university.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.

• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

• American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log into Workday and select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.