Hiring Department
General Counsel
Job Description
The University of Missouri System, located in Columbia, Missouri, is seeking qualified applicants for an attorney emphasizing litigation in the Office of the General Counsel. This position will be based in the Office of the General Counsel in Columbia, Missouri, although hybrid work arrangements may be considered. This position will report to the General Counsel. The University of Missouri System consists of four academic universities located in Columbia, Kansas City, Rolla and St. Louis, and the University Health System. The UM System has more than 75,000 students and 24,000 employees. The Office of the General Counsel provides legal services to all the universities, Health System, and the university system offices.
Responsibilities for the position primarily will focus on representing and advising the University in litigation. The caseload will be in state and federal court and is expected to emphasize employment litigation, with cases involving torts, academic issues, contracts, and other matters also likely. Duties will include serving as co-counsel sole attorney on cases; teaming with other attorneys in the Office or monitoring outside counsel in other cases; handling cases through all stages of litigation, including pleadings, motions, discovery, trial, and appeal; providing advice and representation in matters in which the University and its personnel are non-parties, such as responding to subpoenas; coordinating closely with University risk management personnel and insurance carriers; and keeping the General Counsel well informed. The attorney also will contribute to the non-litigation work of the office including interpreting law and legislation, providing advice, representation, and training for University personnel on a range of topics, conducting and coordinating internal investigations, participating in internal grievance and disciplinary proceedings, drafting and reviewing contracts, and performing other responsibilities assigned by the General Counsel.
To perform this job successfully, individuals should have demonstrated skill, knowledge, and experience in litigation and employment law; ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external contacts; demonstrated skills in client service, oral and written communication and time management; and proven ability to effectively develop trust, respect and cooperation across all areas of an organization and staff levels. Other responsibilities may include service on University committees; policy development and review; and creating and delivering training programs. The attorney should be enthusiastic about taking a client-centered, business-oriented, collegial approach to representing a land grant public research institution. Individuals should be prepared to promote a culture of ethics, integrity, and compliance.
Candidates must have a law degree and be in good standing with all bars or bar associations and no prior disciplinary matters. Admission to Missouri Bar or eligibility for admission by reciprocity is necessary. At least four years’ experience is preferred with knowledge of federal, state and local laws. The starting salary is negotiable. The University provides a benefits package.
Salary
$85,902-$165,000/year
Grade: GGS 14
University Title: COUNSEL
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.
Shift
8a-5p, M-F, evenings and weekends as needed
Minimum Qualifications
- A Juris Doctor or LLB degree from an ABA accredited law school and at least 4 years of experience with a significant specialized experience in at least one area
- License to practice law in Missouri or eligible for admission to the Missouri Bar
Preferred Qualifications
At least four years’ experience is preferred with knowledge of federal, state and local laws
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits
Values Commitment
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.
In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America. For more information, call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-7976.
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.
Know Your Rights
To read more about Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) please use the following links:
- Know Your Rights English Version
- Know Your Rights Spanish Version