Deputy Chief Trial Counsel - Strategic Litigation Leader

State of Oregon; Salem (OR); Hybrid; USD 137,000 - 213,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work option

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is recruiting for a Deputy Chief Trial Counsel to join the Trial Division, which defends the State of Oregon and its agencies. The role anchors strategic direction, oversees multiple sections, and coordinates high-stakes civil litigation with an emphasis on policy, performance, and public service.

Based in Portland or Salem with regular travel; hybrid work is available, plan to be in a DOJ office two days per week.

Qualifications

• Three years of management or other relevant experience, including management of practicing attorneys; and possession of a Juris Doctor degree.
• Active membership in good standing with the Oregon State Bar, or eligibility for reciprocity in progress at the time of application.
• At least ten (10) years of practicing law.
• Ability to guide attorneys through complex litigation, set sound case strategies, evaluate risk, and ensure consistency in the state’s legal positions.
• Skilled at mentoring, coaching, and developing attorneys of varying experience levels. Builds a positive, inclusive team culture, provides constructive feedback, and supports growth, skill-building, and succession planning.
• Strong ability to manage attorney workloads, oversee case progress, and ensure high‑quality work products.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Models DOJ values, including ethics, public service, and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Lead Trial Division and oversee multiple sections to set policies and strategic objectives.
• Direct complex civil litigation and high-profile matters for the state.
• Develop division-wide budgets and resource optimization.
• Mentor attorneys and staff, and lead training initiatives.
• Promote diversity and inclusive, growth-oriented environment.

Skills

Legal leadership

Strategic planning

Mentoring attorneys

Risk evaluation

Communication skills

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Job description

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is recruiting for a Deputy Chief Trial Counsel to join the Trial Division, which defends the State of Oregon and its agencies. The role anchors strategic direction, oversees multiple sections, and coordinates high-stakes civil litigation with an emphasis on policy, performance, and public service.

Based in Portland or Salem with regular travel; hybrid work is available, plan to be in a DOJ office two days per week.