Description:

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
The Pennsylvania Governor's Office of General Counsel (OGC) is seeking a licensed Attorney to serve as counsel to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA). This position offers the opportunity to advise on administrative practice and procedure while supporting PDA's mission to promote a vibrant agricultural economy, strengthen the future of Pennsylvania agriculture, and safeguard the public.

The position will be classified as either an Attorney 2 or 3 based on the successful candidate's level of relevant experience. Based in Harrisburg, it is eligible for a hybrid work schedule of three days in-office per week.

What you will do:
The attorney in this role will serve as counsel on a dynamic portfolio centered on the Bureau of Food Safety and the State Conservation Commission, advising on regulatory, policy, and operational issues that shape these critical areas.

The Bureau of Food Safety includes providing counsel on matters such as food safety inspections and enforcement, retail and wholesale food facility regulation, foodborne illness prevention and response, compliance actions, and coordination with state and federal partners to ensure the integrity of Pennsylvania's food supply.

The State Conservation Commission focuses on issues involving agricultural conservation programs, nutrient and manure management, erosion and sediment control, water quality protection, conservation district oversight, and implementation of state and federal environmental initiatives affecting agriculture.

In addition, the attorney will represent the Department in administrative hearings and related proceedings, assist with drafting and reviewing grant agreements, support a variety of transactional matters, and occasionally advise on human resource issues. The portfolio is diverse and engaging, offering the opportunity to work on timely, real-world issues that directly impact communities, industries, and consumers across the Commonwealth.

What we are looking for:
This Position Calls for an Ability To:

Craft clear, persuasive written and oral communications tailored to a variety of audiences, from program staff to industry stakeholders and executive leadership.
Navigate complex and evolving legal issues with confidence, precision, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
Shift seamlessly between different types of legal work, whether responding to urgent regulatory questions, advising on enforcement actions, reviewing grants, or addressing policy concerns.
Assess and prioritize competing legal needs as they arise, providing timely, practical guidance across a diverse portfolio.
Build trust and respect through strong interpersonal connections and a collaborative approach to problem solving.
Exhibit sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion in handling sensitive or high visibility matters.

Why Join OGC
Attorneys at OGC perform meaningful public service while developing sophisticated legal expertise in a supportive and collaborative environment. We offer:

Competitive benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and generous paid leave
A strong commitment to work-life balance
Opportunities for ongoing professional development and advancement

Learn more about OGC and Careers with OGC at: https://www.ogc.pa.gov

Qualifications:

Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school
Active membership in good standing with the Pennsylvania Bar

To Apply:
Interested attorneys should submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position, along with a resume and a writing sample of no more than 10 pages, no later than April 3, 2026. Application materials should be submitted electronically and directed to Derek Riker, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of General Counsel, 30 N. 3rd Street Harrisburg, PA 17101.

Please submit materials by email only. Applications should not be mailed to the physical office address.

OGC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as it seeks to recruit, develop, and retain qualified individuals to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.