Counsel II - Insurance & Agency Operations

Erie Insurance•Erie, PA

5d•$139,559 - $222,932•Onsite

About The Position

Counsel II works in ERIE's Law Division, within the Insurance Operations Department, at the corporate office in Erie, Pennsylvania. The role assists in providing legal counsel and guidance on ordinary and special business activities and operations, and/or insurance claims and litigation, to protect ERIE's legal rights and ensure operations remain within the limits prescribed by law. The position directs or interfaces with outside legal counsel in defending ERIE against lawsuits or claims, or prosecuting ERIE's claims against others. Preferred experience includes property and casualty or life insurance operations; insurance agency or broker regulation and operations; electronic payments; or commercial law. Candidates with related corporate counseling, regulatory, transactional, or civil litigation experience, especially in highly regulated industries, may also be considered. The hiring manager may also consider candidates for Counsel I, which requires a J.D. or L.L.B. and at least five years of legal experience, preferably in corporate and/or insurance law. The level offered depends on the candidate's experience and qualifications. The position requires a J.D. or L.L.B. from an accredited law school and ten years of related experience, preferably in corporate and/or insurance law. Knowledge or experience in the insurance or financial industry is preferred. Candidates must be admitted to practice and in good standing in at least one state; those not admitted in Pennsylvania must be eligible for admission by reciprocity, limited in-house admission, or examination. Travel on short notice, including overnight stays, may be required. Regular and predictable attendance is essential, and onsite presence may be an essential function based on business and operational needs.

Requirements

J.D. or L.L.B. degree from an accredited law school.
Ten years of related experience, preferably in corporate and/or insurance law.
Admitted to practice and in good standing in at least one state; if not admitted in Pennsylvania, eligible for admission by reciprocity, limited in-house admission, or examination.
Ability to travel on short notice, potentially including overnight stays.
Regular and predictable attendance.

Nice To Haves

Experience in property and casualty or life insurance operations, including insurance coverage, product development, underwriting, or regulatory matters.
Experience in insurance agency or broker regulation and operations.
Experience with electronic payments.
Experience in commercial law.
Related corporate counseling, regulatory, transactional, or civil litigation experience, especially in highly regulated industries.
Knowledge or experience with the insurance or financial industry.

Responsibilities

Assist with the organization and direction of the company's legal activities.
Assist in directing the defense of the company against suits or claims and initiate legal actions to support the company's claims against others.
Provide legal counsel and guidance to officers and other personnel on corporate and operational matters involving legal problems.
Prepare or review proposed contracts, leases, formal agreements, and legal instruments to safeguard the company's interests; review drafts of ERIE insurance policies, forms, and endorsements.
Draft and revise insurance contracts and related documents to ensure conformity with applicable statutes, regulations, administrative orders, circulars, bulletins, and other legal authority.
Research and interpret statutes, regulations, case law, insurance department bulletins, and other applicable legal authority; provide legal advice and guidance to company departments.
Provide legal research, advice, and guidance on insurance claims.
Review proposed and existing legislation affecting Erie Insurance Group and advise and consult with General Counsel, Deputy General Counsel, and Senior Counsel on the company's position.
Counsel and advise corporate personnel on legal issues involving areas such as real and personal property, taxes, advertising, trademarks, copyright, promotion programs, contracts, personnel matters, public relations, underwriting, and claims interpretation.
Participate in trade associations and regulatory and legislative hearings and meetings as directed or requested.
Handle legal assignments as directed or requested.
Follow other job-related instructions and perform other duties as requested by a supervisor or as needs become evident.

Benefits

Health, prescription, dental, and vision benefits for employees and dependents, with coverage beginning the first day of work.
Low employee contributions to medical and prescription premiums; the company currently pays up to 97% of employees' monthly premium costs.
Traditional pension plan; full-time employees vest after five years of service.
401(k) with up to 4% contribution match, in addition to the pension.
Paid vacation, personal days, sick days, bereavement days, and parental leave.
Tuition reimbursement for higher education and industry designations.
Company-paid basic life insurance.
Short- and long-term disability insurance.
Orthodontic coverage for children and adults.
Adoption assistance.
Fertility and infertility coverage.
Well-being programs.
Paid volunteer hours for community service.
Dollar-for-dollar matching of charitable gifts each year.
Position may be eligible for an annual bonus payment.