Executive Deputy Chief Trial Counsel

Oregon Department of Justice; Salem (OR); Hybrid; USD 12,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is recruiting for a Deputy Chief Trial Counsel (Legal Practice Attorney Administrator 1) to join the Trial Division, which defends the State of Oregon, its agencies, and employees in civil litigation and pursues affirmative litigation to advance Oregon’s values.

The Trial Division includes five major sections that handle a broad spectrum of state and federal litigation: Corrections Litigation Unit, Civil Litigation Section, Criminal and Collateral Remedies

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.
• 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 and coordinate significant civil litigation and legal services involving complex, high‑profile matters.
• Shape the strategic direction, operational strength, and legal impact of the Trial Division.
• Oversee multiple legal sections, providing direction and promoting accountability.
• Contribute to budget planning, monitoring expenditures, and optimizing resource allocation.
• Mentor attorneys and staff, lead training initiatives, and foster an inclusive work environment.

Skills

Management of attorneys

Mentoring & coaching

Strategic leadership

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Decision-making

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is recruiting for a Deputy Chief Trial Counsel (Legal Practice Attorney Administrator 1) to join the Trial Division, which defends the State of Oregon, its agencies, and employees in civil litigation and pursues affirmative litigation to advance Oregon’s values.

The Trial Division includes five major sections that handle a broad spectrum of state and federal litigation: Corrections Litigation Unit, Civil Litigation Section, Criminal and Collateral Remedies