Assistant Attorney General - Highways and Utilities

Assistant Attorney General - Highways and Utilities

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Benefits Eligibility – This position is eligible for a full benefits package.
Salary – $61.08 - $89.24 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site

Recruiter – Desi Crane | aghr@agutah.gov | (801) 597-4659
Application Deadline – 9/24/2026*

*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Key Responsibilities

The Utah Attorney General's Office, Highways & Utilities Division, is seeking an attorney to represent the Department of Transportation (UDOT) in eminent domain actions and other legal matters handled by the Division.  Preference will be given to applicants with litigation experience. Applicants should be an active member of the Utah State Bar in good standing.

 
Applicants must have the ability to analyze complex legal problems, apply legal principles, prepare legal documents, and present arguments clearly, persuasively and logically.  Some travel is required as incumbents will need to represent UDOT in legal proceedings throughout the State.  

As part of this application process, you must upload your resume, cover letter and a writing sample into your application profile.  Writing samples should demonstrate proficiency in contested legal matters.

Responsibilities

• Prepares cases by conducting legal research and gathering evidence.
• Consults, makes recommendations, gives appropriate advice, and facilitates decisions pertaining to client interests.
• Determines needs in discovery, and/or completes discovery; participates in decision making and strategy sessions to prepare cases for court and determine the necessary evidence.
• Writes or drafts court filings, correspondence and/or other legal materials.
• Researches and responds to incoming client questions; provides information, explains policy and procedures, and/or facilitates resolution of legal disputes.
• Represents the state, the client agency, or its officials in lawsuits and tries cases in district court, usually jury trials.
• Prepares legal documents based upon facts of case, interpretations of law, and compliance with state and federal law.
• Conducts conferences with opposing parties and/or attorneys and negotiates settlements.
• May periodically represent client agencies in formal or informal administrative proceedings.
• Occasionally may be required to travel to various locations and stay overnight.

Qualifications

(includes knowledge, skills, and abilities required upon entry into position and trainable after entry into position)

• A Juris Doctorate is required.
• Active membership in the Utah State Bar required.
• agency and/or organizational program(s)
• communicate information and ideas clearly, and concisely, in writing; read and understand information presented in writing
• read interpret and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies and/or procedures
• speak clearly, concisely and effectively; listen to, and understand, information and ideas as presented verbally
• legal processes and procedures
• applicable laws, rules, regulations and/or policies and procedures
• understand and apply case and statutory law
• evaluation information against a set of standards
• use logic to analyze or identify underlying principles, reasons, or facts associated with information or data to draw conclusions
• laws, legal codes, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, the democratic political process, and legislative history
• perform legal research using case law and appropriate techniques
• laws governing access to public and private records (Government Records Access and Management Act)
• make a decision or solve a problem by using logic to identify key facts, explore alternatives, and propose quality solutions
• deal with people in a manner which shows sensitivity, tact, and professionalism
• provide consultation and/or expert advice or testimony
• knowledge of Rules of Evidence
• interpret and apply legal decisions and identify current and emerging trends in interpretation
• knowledge of principles, theories and practices of judicial or administrative law

Supplemental Information

• Risks found in the typical office setting, which is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated, e.g., safe use of office equipment, avoiding trips and falls, observing fire regulations, etc.
• Typically, the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work; however, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying light items; driving an automobile, etc. Special physical demands are not required to perform the work.
• A conditional offer of employment will be made pending a satisfactory completion of a background investigation.
• Must be able to travel as required. 
• Salary is calculated based on initial Bar admittance year, less any years not practicing law, as outlined below

Bar Year                      Base                Annual

2026-2024	$61.08	$127,046.40
2023-2021	$64.44	$134,035.20
2020-2018	$68.18	$141,814.40
2017-2013	$72.11	$149,988.80
2012-2008	$73.02	$151,881.60
2007-2003	$75.02	$156,041.60
2002	$76.55	$159,224.00
2001-1998	$78.10	$162,448.00
1997-1993	$80.80	$168,064.00
1992	$81.47	$169,457.60
1991-1988	$83.20	$173,056.00
1987	$85.03	$176,862.40
1986-1983	$86.44	$179,795.20
1981 and Prior	$89.24	$185,619.20

About the Role

Location –
160 East 300 South
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84111
United States
Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – AG - Employees at the Attorney General's Office

Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. 
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. 
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Office of the Utah Attorney General
If you are looking to make a meaningful impact while working in a dynamic, fast-paced legal environment, the Attorney General’s Office offers a unique opportunity. As counselors, protectors, and stewards, the Office plays a vital role in defending both the U.S. and Utah constitutions, protecting residents, and preserving the resources that make Utah special. You’ll contribute to upholding justice, advising state agencies, and safeguarding the rights and interests of Utah’s citizens. With responsibilities ranging from prosecuting corporate misconduct to enforcing public lands policy and supporting children’s justice initiatives, your work here will be both diverse and rewarding. Join a team dedicated to serving the public and advancing the cause of justice in Utah.

EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (385) 271-5803.

Salary

• $61.08 - $89.24/hour