Assistant County Solicitor - Children's Bureau

Westmoreland-County; Greensburg (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Westmoreland County seeks a licensed attorney to provide legal advice to the Children’s Bureau and to represent the Bureau in court hearings and administrative proceedings. The role supports case management, interagency communications, and policy guidance to ensure compliance with applicable laws.

The ideal candidate will have a Juris Doctor and Pennsylvania licensure, with 2–4 years of trial experience and knowledge of Juvenile Act and related statutes.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor required with broad law focus.
• Licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania.

Responsibilities

• Provides legal advice and support to the Children’s Bureau.
• Meets with Bureau Administration regarding current issues and case management.
• Participates in litigation as necessary; represents the Children’s Bureau at judicial and master’s hearings and appeals, and at Pa. Department of Human Services administrative hearings and appeals.
• Communicates with other government offices on behalf of the Children's Bureau.
• Occasionally advises and assists management on agency policy and current law.
• Occasionally assists in the training of caseworkers and paralegals, as assigned by the Children's Bureau Chief Solicitor.

Skills

Trial experience

Legal research

Oral and written communication

Confidentiality

Independent decision making

Education

Juris Doctor degree

PA law license

Job description

To provide legal advice for the Children’s Bureau management and caseworkers, and to represent the Children’s Bureau in Court hearings and administrative proceedings.

A career with Westmoreland County offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our residents while serving one of Pennsylvania's most vibrant and growing communities.

County employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, a competitive retirement plan, generous paid time off, and opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. We are committed to supporting our workforce through programs and resources that promote both personal and professional success.

Westmoreland County fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive work environment where dedication, integrity, innovation, and public service are valued and recognized. With diverse career opportunities across numerous departments and unions, employees can build rewarding careers while contributing to the health, safety, and well-being of our community.

Join a team that is committed to excellence in public service and dedicated to making a positive difference every day. Westmoreland County is proud to attract and retain talented professionals who are passionate about serving others and helping shape the future of our region.

Follow the link below to learn more about all that Westmoreland County has to offer:

https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/2377/You-Belong-Here

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF JOB:

1. Provides legal advice and support to the Children’s Bureau.
2. Meets occasionally with the Bureau Administration regarding current issues and case management.
3. Participates in litigation as necessary; represents the Children’s Bureau at judicial and master’s hearings and appeals, and at Pa. Department of Human Services administrative hearings and appeals.
4. Communicates with other government offices on behalf of the Children's Bureau.
5. Occasionally advises and assists management on agency policy and current law.
6. Occasionally assists in the training of caseworkers and paralegals, as assigned by the Children's Bureau Chief Solicitor.

OTHER DUTIES OF JOB:

1. Attends meetings, training and seminars as required.
2. Performs other job duties as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Occasional instruction and supervision is given by the Chief County Solicitor.

SUPERVISION GIVEN:

None.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

1. Works indoors in adequate office space, with adequate lighting, temperature and ventilation.
2. Normal exposure to noise and stress and other disruptions.
3. Normal indoor exposure to dust/dirt.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL CONDITIONS:

1. Must possess the ability to present, convey and record information, explain procedures and follow instructions.
2. Must be able to sit for long periods of time throughout the work day, with intermittent periods of walking and standing.
3. Occasional periods of stooping, bending, twisting and reaching as necessary to carry out job functions.
4. Dexterity requirements range from fine manipulation of fingers/hands; to simple movement of feet/legs/torso as necessary to carry out essential job duties.
5. Sedentary work, with occasional lifting/carrying of objects with a maximum weight of up to 10 pounds.
6. Must be able to pay close attention to detail and concentrate in a moderately stressful environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To do this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

1. EDUCATION/TRAINING:
   Juris Doctor required with broad law focus. Licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania.
2. WORK EXPERIENCE:
   Minimum of 2-4 years of experience practicing law including frequent trial work required. 3-4 years of practicing law including trial work and experience with Juvenile Act, Child Protective Services Law, Adoption Act (State), Adoption and Safe Families Act (Federal) and related regulations, rules and procedures preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

1. Must be able to speak and understand the English language and to follow oral and written instruction.
2. Must possess effective oral and written communication skills.
3. Must possess ability to function independently, have flexibility and the ability to work effectively with the public, co-workers and others.
4. Must possess ability to maintain confidentiality in regard to public and department information and records.
5. Must possess the technical knowledge of operating personal computers for on-line research, word processing, preparing legal documents and email communications.
6. Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
7. Must possess the ability to organize trial plans and prepare witnesses for testimony.
8. Must possess knowledge of accepted legal practices and procedures and familiarity with Juvenile Act, Child Protective Services Law, Adoption Act (State), Adoption and Safe Families Act (Federal), Rules of Evidence, and PA Code Regulations for CYS.
9. Must possess the ability to maintain records and files accurately and in an organized fashion.

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