Attorney I

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Job ID: 34896
Agency: Department of Corrections - Legal
Location: Sioux Falls, SD or Rapid City, SD
Salary: $78,000 to $86,000 annually, depending on experience
Pay Grade: L1
Closing Date: open until filled

Priority review for applications received by February 28, 2026

About the Role

The South Dakota Department of Corrections is hiring an entry-level Attorney to join its Legal team. This role offers hands-on experience in civil litigation and public-sector law, supporting DOC operations and representing the department in a range of legal matters.

You'll work closely with agency General Counsel, leadership and staff, handle meaningful cases, and gain exposure to corrections law, administrative proceedings, and courtroom practice.

To learn more about the Department of Corrections, please visit http://doc.sd.gov .

What You'll Do

• Represent the Department of Corrections in civil litigation, including state court and small claims matters
• Represent the Board of Pardons and Parole in administrative appeals
• Respond to subpoenas and manage lawful disclosure of records and information
• Prepare legal pleadings, briefs, and related documents independently

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Member of the South Dakota State Bar or eligible and willing to become licensed within 6 months
• Qualified for appointment as a Special Assistant Attorney General

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is someone who:

• Demonstrates strong ethical judgment and professionalism
• Communicates clearly, concisely, and confidently
• Understands litigation practices and legal strategy
• Exercises sound judgment and makes timely, well-reasoned decisions
• Analyzes complex legal issues and applies relevant precedent
• Works independently while welcoming feedback and collaboration
• Manages competing priorities and meets deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Knowledge & Skills:

Knowledge of:

• State and federal laws related to corrections and parole
• Prison law and institutional requirements
• Parole board procedures and due process standards
• Juvenile justice and juvenile corrections
• South Dakota state government and administrative law

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively in writing and in court
• Explain legal issues to both legal and non-legal audiences
• Draft legal documents without reliance on secretarial or paralegal support

Working Conditions:

• Occasional entry into DOC facilities is required
• Some in-state travel will be required

How to Apply:

To be considered, please submit:

• Resume
• Writing sample (10 pages or fewer)

Applications received before February 28, 2026, will receive priority consideration.

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act.

Successful applicant(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation. An arrest/conviction record will not necessarily bar employment. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of a drug screening.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information here . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

Must apply online: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=3JA
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"

#LI-Onsite

Salary

• $78,000 - $86,000/year