Assistant General Counsel

This position is eligible for telework which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire. 

Summary

MTA Construction and Development Company (MTA C&D) is the construction arm of the MTA and is responsible for all capital projects for the MTA operating agencies. We seek a practicing attorney who will report to the Senior Vice President & Deputy General Counsel and be accountable for providing legal counsel, contract management, procurement, risk management and policy advice to MTA C&D executives and management on a broad range of issues to protect and preserve the agency’s legal interests. This position will handle a broad range of issues touching every department within the agency, including construction, real estate, procurement, human resources, program controls, intellectual property, media, and environmental issues. The position will also assist the Deputy General Counsel in addressing complex matters for the General Counsel and agency executives.

The Contracts Department provides legal advice on all construction contracts, litigation and claims and change orders, as well as third-party real estate agreements and condemnation proceedings. In addition, the department provides legal advice on human resources, environmental, personal injury, intellectual property, Freedom of Information Law, public relations and legislative matters, and other issues relating to MTA C&D.

The Contracts Department is a service provider to clients within MTA C&D and is responsible for all procurement activities within the agency.

Responsibilities

Provide in-house legal counsel and business strategies for all activities affecting the agency to help agency executives make business decisions that will protect the agency's legal rights and minimize risk. Must be accountable for a broad range of practice areas including real estate acquisitions, construction, contract drafting, federal and state compliance obligations, environmental issues and human resources matters.

Draft and review multi-million construction contracts and multi-million design and professional services contracts to ensure compliance with MTA policy and state and federal regulations. Interpret and analyze complex technical engineering plans, designs and specifications to ensure that contract requirements are written to minimize legal risk and contractor claims.

Analyze construction design plans, specifications, schedules, and estimates to determine the merit of contractor claims. Make recommendations on legal strategies for handling claims.

Represent MTA C&D  in dispute resolution proceedings concerning complex construction claims with high values.

Negotiate multi-million-dollar construction contract changes to preserve the agency's legal rights, minimize delays, and protect the project's budget and schedule.

Develop and implement a compliance training program for procurement and construction management staff and consultants to ensure that all actions conform to contract requirements, agency policies and procedures, and state and federal regulations.

Represent the agency in complex and sensitive special assignments as requested by the General Counsel.

Coordinate and monitor work performed by outside counsel.

Education and Experience

A Law Degree (JD) from an accredited law school and admission to the Bar of the State of New York is required.

A minimum of one (1) year of progressively independent legal experience in a law firm, a governmental legal office or a company's in-house legal department is required.

Some background or education in engineering, construction or architecture is preferred.

Some experience in working on matters involving construction projects and/or real estate matters and familiarity with relevant local, state and federal laws is preferred.

Some experience in contract drafting or litigation is preferred.

Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, writing, and communication skills.

Must be capable of building and maintaining client relationships.

Other Information

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Selection Criteria

Based on evaluation of education, skills, experience, and interview.

How to Apply

MTA employees must apply via My MTA Portal. You can submit an online application by logging into My MTA Portal, clicking the My Job Search ribbon, and selecting the “Careers” link. Logging in through My MTA Portal will link your BSC ID number to your job application to identify you as an internal applicant.

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.