Labor Counsel II

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS\:  Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and (A) at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law.

Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid Motor Vehicle Drivers License at a Class level specific to assignment.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

Join Our Team as a Labor Counsel\: Shape the Future of Public Service!

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Branch is one of the state's largest employers, with over 43,000 employees across eleven Secretariats and more than 70 agencies. We offer a dynamic work environment where employees take on meaningful roles in a vast array of sectors, including healthcare, transportation, education, public safety, and technology. Our workforce reflects the diverse population we serve, fostering an inclusive and innovative community.

Position Overview

Are you an attorney ready to make a significant impact right from the start? The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is seeking a driven and talented Labor Counsel (Counsel II) to join the Human Resources Division (HRD) team. This role is not just another job; it's an opportunity to be at the forefront of labor and employment law, making a real difference in state government.

As a key member of our six-person team, you'll be at the heart of critical legal work. Your responsibilities will include:

• Advocacy and Representation\: Representing HRD and various Commonwealth agencies before labor arbitrators, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), Department of Labor Relations, and Civil Service Commission.
• Consultation and Strategy\: Providing expert consultation on employment investigations and collective bargaining.
• Research and Writing\: Utilizing your strong legal research and writing skills to support our mission.
• Independent Work\: Thriving in an environment where autonomy and independent judgment are valued.

This is a hybrid position, offering the flexibility to work both remotely and on-site. Our complex and diverse work environment provides a unique platform for you to showcase your skills and grow your career.

If you're ready to hit the ground running and be an active contributor to meaningful work, join us in shaping the future of public service in Massachusetts. Apply today and make a difference!

Primary Duties:

• Represent the employer in all aspects of labor and employment law litigation before various administrative agencies.
• Consult with agency clients and provide legal advice.
• Assist with policy development and drafting of legislation.
• Research and draft legal memos.
• Assist investigators with ongoing investigations.
• Provide legal support to collective bargaining.
• Provide assistance to the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel as directed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• At least two-three years of experience in Labor Arbitration and/or Employment law – public sector preferred;
• Knowledge of the theory, principles, and practices of law including labor and employment law.
• Prior Experience in Union setting or government agency;
• Past experience with MCAD, Civil Service, Department of Labor Relations;
• Ability to travel throughout the Commonwealth as assigned and necessary;
• Knowledge of legal research methods and procedures;
• Ability to read and interpret legal documents such as decisions, briefs, opinions and contracts;
• Ability to understand and apply laws, rules and regulations governing agency operations and assigned unit activities;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment; ability to exercise discretion, in confidential information;
• Ability to explain the provisions of the laws, rules, regulations and procedures, guidelines and policies governing agency operations and assigned unit activities;
• Ability to gather information through questioning and observing individuals and by examining records and documents;
• Ability to establish rapport and maintain harmonious working relationships with others;
• Ability to interact with people who are under physical and/or emotional stress;
• Ability to deal effectively with others; ability to maintain a calm manner in stressful and/or emergency situations;
• Ability to ability to work professionally in adversarial relationships with opposing counsel;
• Ability to assemble items of information in accordance with established procedures; ability to maintain accurate records;
• Ability to give written and oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner, ability to conduct interviews;
• Ability to write concisely and effectively to express thoughts clearly, and to develop ideas in logical sequence;
• Ability to make effective oral presentation; ability to communicate effectively in oral expression.