Associate General Counsel - Public Benefits & Compliance

Arizona Department of Economic Security; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Office of the General Counsel seeks an experienced Associate General Counsel to provide comprehensive legal counsel across contracts, eligibility determinations, appeals, claims disputes, compliance actions, policy development, rulemaking, public records, and risk mitigation.

You will partner with division leadership to ensure programs operate in accordance with federal and Arizona law, manage high‑volume matters, deliver practical guidance, and

Qualifications

• Possession of, and ability to maintain a current valid license to practice law in the State of Arizona.
• Ability to maintain Arizona Driver's License.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Legal Counsel - Provide timely, practical, and risk-informed legal advice to leadership and executive stakeholders to ensure compliance with federal and state law and alignment with DES priorities.
• Legal Research and Analysis - Conduct complex legal research and apply statutes, regulations, case law, and administrative guidance to support sound legal and operational decision-making.
• Contracts and Procurement - Review, draft, and advise on contracts, intergovernmental agreements, and procurement documents, ensuring legal sufficiency and risk mitigation.
• Eligibility, Appeals, and Claims - Provide legal guidance on eligibility determinations, administrative appeals, and claims disputes; support litigation strategy and administrative hearings as needed.
• Compliance and Risk Management - Advise on audits, compliance actions, and corrective measures; identify legal risks and recommend proactive mitigation strategies.
• Policy Development and Rulemaking - Draft, review, and interpret policies, procedures, and administrative rules to ensure alignment with statutory authority and best practices.
• Public Records and Transparency - Provide legal guidance on public records requests and disclosure obligations, ensuring compliance while protecting confidential information.

Skills

Self-Direction and Initiative

Communication

Collaboration and Emotional Intell.,ig

Perform Under Pressure

Analyze and Exercise Judgment

Education

Arizona Bar License

Job description

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Office of the General Counsel seeks an experienced Associate General Counsel to provide comprehensive legal counsel across contracts, eligibility determinations, appeals, claims disputes, compliance actions, policy development, rulemaking, public records, and risk mitigation.

You will partner with division leadership to ensure programs operate in accordance with federal and Arizona law, manage high‑volume matters, deliver practical guidance, and