Senior University Counsel, Higher Education

SLAC; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 210,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University is seeking an exceptional University Counsel to advise on a wide range of legal matters across the university, including higher education governance, compliance, contracts, and risk management. Reporting to the Deputy General Counsel, the successful candidate will work independently and with OGC colleagues and outside counsel in a dynamic, cutting-edge environment.

The role requires JD from an accredited school, at least six years of progressively responsible experience,

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible experience, ideally in higher education or related field.
• Membership in the California Bar or ability to qualify as registered in-house counsel in California.
• Excellent legal analysis, drafting, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex legal issues into clear, practical advice.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and with colleagues across disciplines.
• Strong client service orientation and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Commitment to integrity, discretion, and professional ethics.
• Willingness to attend in-office work at least three days per week.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel and advice across the University.
• Advise on applicable state and federal laws, regulations, governance, accreditation, compliance, contracts, and risk management.
• Collaborate with University units on policies and operations to support compliance.
• Advise on development and review of contracts, policies, procedures, legislation, and other legal issues.
• Respond to demand letters and handle agency investigations as necessary.

Skills

Juris Doctor

In-house/University counsel experience

California Bar eligibility

Contract drafting & negotiation

Legal research & analysis

Client service

Cross-functional collaboration

Discretion & ethics

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Job description

Stanford University is seeking an exceptional University Counsel to advise on a wide range of legal matters across the university, including higher education governance, compliance, contracts, and risk management. Reporting to the Deputy General Counsel, the successful candidate will work independently and with OGC colleagues and outside counsel in a dynamic, cutting-edge environment.

The role requires JD from an accredited school, at least six years of progressively responsible experience,