Senior Education Counsel — Labor & Policy Leader

Seattle Public Schools; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Seattle Public Schools is seeking a Senior General Counsel to serve as legal counsel and representative to district managers and staff. The role covers labor and employment law, policy guidance, and leadership in adversary proceedings, with oversight of the General Counsel’s office.

Requires judgment with minimal direction based on extensive legal practice in government or education. The Senior General Counsel advises the Superintendent and Board, collaborates with HR on employment issues, and

Qualifications

• Knowledge of legal and compliance issues affecting the District.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations affecting public schools and other local government entities in Washington.
• Collaborative problem-solving skills.
• Strong research skills.
• Strong oral and written communications skills.
• Ability to think logically and creatively.
• May occasionally deal with distraught or difficult individuals.
• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with District management and staff, students, parents/guardians, outside agencies and the public in a multicultural community.

Responsibilities

• Acts as legal counsel to the District.
• Represents the District in legal proceedings, including litigation and administrative proceedings.
• Provides legal advice to Human Resources and other organizational leaders on employment matters including wage and hour, discrimination, leaves, ADA, investigations, discipline, and grievance procedures.
• Oversees outside counsel in employment litigation and hearings, including settlement negotiations.

Skills

Legal knowledge

Employment law

Labor relations

Litigation

Policy analysis

Research skills

Written & oral communications

Multitasking

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

J.D. or LL.M.

Washington Bar membership

Job description

Seattle Public Schools is seeking a Senior General Counsel to serve as legal counsel and representative to district managers and staff. The role covers labor and employment law, policy guidance, and leadership in adversary proceedings, with oversight of the General Counsel’s office.

Requires judgment with minimal direction based on extensive legal practice in government or education. The Senior General Counsel advises the Superintendent and Board, collaborates with HR on employment issues, and