Attorney

the South Dakota State Government • Pierre, SD

11h • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources is seeking an Attorney I or II to provide legal expertise in support of its mission to protect and preserve agriculture, the environment, and natural resources through regulatory services, conservation, and financial and technical assistance. The attorney advises multiple divisions, supports regulatory compliance, and represents the department in legal proceedings. The position is based in Pierre, South Dakota, and is a full-time, 40-hours-per-week role.

The attorney provides counsel to the department secretary and divisions; supports enforcement actions and settlement agreements; represents the department in administrative hearings and trial and appellate courts; and manages cases from inception through resolution. The work also includes legal research and drafting, contracts, legislation and administrative rules, public records requests, and open meetings compliance. The position collaborates with other state agencies and performs other duties as assigned.

Applicants must attach a resume and a legal writing sample of fewer than 10 pages. A National Career Readiness Certificate may be submitted if available, but is not required. The position is exempt from the Civil Service Act. Applicants must apply online; emailed resumes or submissions are not accepted. The State does not sponsor work visas. Hired candidates must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9; the State uses E-Verify.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate (JD) degree.
• Licensed to practice law in South Dakota.
• Attach a resume and a legal writing sample of fewer than 10 pages to be considered.
• Communicate clearly and concisely in oral and written communications.
• Assess legal risk and provide clear, practical guidance.
• Work independently while following instructions and accepting guidance.
• Organize and manage caseloads and client needs.
• Work effectively with program staff, private attorneys, boards, hearing officers, and court officials.
• Uphold high levels of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment.

Nice To Haves

• 1–10 years of legal experience.
• Knowledge of South Dakota and federal agriculture and environmental regulations and a desire to advocate for South Dakota agriculture and natural resource protection.
• Previous experience handling administrative hearings and regulatory compliance matters.
• Knowledge of South Dakota agriculture and natural resources; state and federal regulations concerning agriculture, the environment, and natural resource protection; legislative and rulemaking processes; administrative practices and procedures; legal research techniques and technology tools; and rules of evidence, civil procedure, and constitutional law.
• A National Career Readiness Certificate may be submitted, but is not necessary for consideration.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel to the department secretary and divisions on legal matters.
• Oversee compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Assist staff with developing and executing enforcement actions and settlement agreements.
• Represent the department in administrative hearings and in trial and appellate courts.
• Manage case strategy from inception through resolution, including discovery, drafting legal pleadings, evidentiary hearings, trials, and oral arguments.
• Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, policies, and legal opinions.
• Assist with drafting, reviewing, or evaluating contracts.
• Draft legislation and administrative rules and assist with reviewing legislation and lobbying.
• Manage open records requests and ensure adherence to public records laws.
• Advise staff and boards on compliance with open meetings laws.
• Collaborate with other state agencies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• $0 premium employee health insurance option.
• Eleven paid holidays.
• Vacation and sick leave accrual.
• Dental, vision, and other insurance options.
• Retirement benefits; this position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree