Associate General Counsel

Arizona Department of Administration • Phoenix, AZ

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Economic Security (DES) is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join their team as a General Counsel Attorney. This position directly supports the Department's program and operational activities by assignment from the General Counsel, Office of the Director. In the General Counsel's absence, the position may act under the direct supervision of the agency's Director. The role also directly supports General Counsel Office staff through review of work product prior to dissemination.

Requirements

• Knowledge of federal and Arizona laws, rules, and regulations, particularly in public benefits.
• Knowledge of legal aspects of healthcare, including administrative law, the Administrative Procedure Act, civil litigation, rulemaking, healthcare compliance, and the legislative process.
• Knowledge of judicial and administrative processes, procedures, and legal terminology.
• Knowledge of legal research methodologies and legal writing (e.g., memoranda, pleadings, reports).
• Knowledge of ethical requirements of government lawyers and managing client expectations.
• Skilled in self-direction and initiative: Independently managing workload and proactively addressing legal issues.
• Skilled in communication: Clearly conveying complex legal concepts in both written and verbal formats to diverse audiences.
• Skilled in collaboration and emotional intelligence: Effectively working with leadership, staff, and stakeholders while demonstrating professionalism and empathy.
• Ability to perform under pressure: Manage competing priorities and time-sensitive matters with composure and focus.
• Ability to analyze and exercise judgment: Identify legal issues, evaluate risks, and deliver well-reasoned recommendations.
• Ability to demonstrate commitment to public service: Support programs that improve lives and strengthen Arizona communities.
• Possession of, and ability to maintain a current valid license to practice law in the State of Arizona.
• If driving or using a vehicle is essential, must possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver's license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver's license record checks.
• Successfully pass background and reference check.
• Successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Nice To Haves

• A minimum ten (10) years of experience in the practice of law, with five (5) of the more recent years including principal management and oversight of legal staff.
• Five (5) to seven (7) years of litigation experience spanning Federal AND State court as well as administrative forums.

Responsibilities

• Provide timely, practical, and risk-informed legal advice to DDD leadership and executive stakeholders to ensure compliance with federal and state law and alignment with DES priorities.
• Conduct complex legal research and apply statutes, regulations, case law, and administrative guidance to support sound legal and operational decision-making.
• Review, draft, and advise on contracts, intergovernmental agreements, and procurement documents, ensuring legal sufficiency and risk mitigation.
• Provide legal guidance on eligibility determinations, administrative appeals, and claims disputes; support litigation strategy and administrative hearings as needed.
• Advise on audits, compliance actions, and corrective measures; identify legal risks and recommend proactive mitigation strategies.
• Draft, review, and interpret policies, procedures, and administrative rules to ensure alignment with statutory authority and best practices.
• Provide legal guidance on public records requests and disclosure obligations, ensuring compliance while protecting confidential information.
• Serve as a key liaison between OGC and DDD; collaborate with leadership, program staff, and other DES divisions; respond to inquiries from executive and division leadership.
• Participate in departmental initiatives to build a comprehensive understanding of DES programs, operations, and statewide impact.
• Identify and implement legal best practices that enhance program effectiveness, accessibility, and community impact.
• Develop and deliver legal training to staff, fostering a culture of compliance, accountability, and informed decision-making.
• Manage a high-volume, complex workload in a dynamic environment while meeting performance expectations and supporting hybrid/remote operations.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans
• Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and long-term disability plans
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child.
• Deferred compensation plan
• Wellness plans
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Stipend Opportunities
• Infant at Work Program
• Rideshare and Public Transit Subsidy
• Career Advancement & Employee Development Opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior