GENERAL COUNSEL-DOE - 48000734

State of Florida•Tallahassee, FL

2d•$150,000 - $170,000•Onsite

About The Position

As General Counsel, this position serves as chief legal advisor to the State Board of Education and the Commissioner of Education on all issues relating to the public education in the State of Florida. This position is a vital and essential part of the Commissioner of Education’s management team. The legal ramifications of implementing the Department’s programs must be thoroughly reviewed. It is essential that all state and federal rules be given in-depth consideration by the General Counsel. The incumbent in this position is responsible for the administration and supervision of the staff in the Office of the General Counsel. The General Counsel manages the day-to-day operations of the legal office which includes the work efforts of Department attorneys and support staff.

Requirements

Licensed by the Florida Bar
Accomplished attorney with broad experience in education law, Florida Education Law, contracts, compliance and regulatory matters.
Deep knowledge of education policy.
Ability to work with Senior Executives

Responsibilities

Supervise outside counsel, coordinate work with outside counsel, and work to ensure alignment with Department and Commissioner’s priorities.
At times, represent the Department in court and administrative litigation.
Serve as the Department’s liaison with other state and federal agencies on legal matters.
Coordinate and manage the Department’s legal operations across all offices, and draft review and coordinate pleadings, briefs, memoranda, and other legal documents.
Prepare and supervise the preparation of legal opinions and advice for members of the State Board of Education, the Commissioner of Education, and the Chancellors of the divisions of Department of Education.
Advise the Commissioner of Education on probable cause in educator certificate revocation matters under Section 1012.795, Florida Statues.
Consult on a day-to-day basis with the Commissioner of Education, members of the State Board of Education, and the Department of Education division heads and executive staff members, and attorneys and employees for the district school system and community college system.
Attend meetings of the State Board of Education and other related education and legal meetings as required.
Review and assist department staff in drafting proposed legislation. Meet with legislative staff and legislators when requested regarding proposed legislation. Keep abreast of current state and federal court rulings in order to advise on needed changes in education laws and State Board of Education regulations.
Review for form and legality of all contracts, agreements, amendments, leases and other miscellaneous contractual documents to which the State Board of Education or the Department of Education is a party. Assist in procurement negotiations. Represent the Department in actions contesting the award of contracts.
Serve as the Chief Ethics Officer for the Department.
As a supervisor, the incumbent must communicate with, motivate, provide or coordinate training, and direct the work of his/her subordinates. In addition, the employee must complete timely performance appraisals, develop timely and accurate work plans, and timely approve monthly attendance and leave for each position under his/her direct report. Timesheets will be completed in the People First system by the 5th business day of the following month. The incumbent has the authority to make hiring recommendations as well as disciplinary recommendations.
Performs related tasks as necessary.
Attendance at work is an essential job function.

Benefits

State Group Insurance coverage options+(health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental option)
Retirement plan options, including employer contributions (www.myfrs.com)
Nine paid holidays and a Personal Holiday each year
Annual and Sick Leave Benefits
Student Loan Forgiveness Program (Eligibility required)
Flexible Spending Accounts
Tuition Fee Waivers (Accepted by major Florida colleges/universities)
Ongoing comprehensive training provided
Career Growth
Highly skilled, professional environment
Maternity and Parental Leave Benefits