Associate Counsel - HR

Closing Date: 12th October, 2026

Description:

Job Overview:
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) is currently seeking experienced candidates for Associate Counsel in the DHS Office of General Counsel. The Associate Counsel will be primarily responsible for providing legal advice and support to DHS staff in multiple program areas and internal support divisions within the Tennessee Department of Human Services. The position is Executive Service. The Office of General Counsel provides legal advice to DHS programs and support divisions, legal representation in judicial and administrative litigation affecting the department, prepares departmental rules, and prepares legislation for and analysis of legislation affecting the Department.

Key Responsibilities:

• The Associate Counsel will be responsible for consulting with DHS staff regarding legal issues involving Human Resources and employment law matters, including but not limited to FMLA, ADA, PWFA, background checks, disciplinary action and issues arising out of internal investigations.
• This position is responsible for limited litigation, primarily in administrative forums related to employee appeals under the TEAM act, unemployment compensation, as well as responding to EEOC complaints, and coordinating with the Attorney General's Office on any employment litigation in state or federal court.
• The Associate Counsel will be responsible for working directly with the Deputy General Counsel on legal writing and research projects as assigned.
• The position requires legal research of federal and state laws, regulations and case law on multiple issues and preparation of memoranda advising DHS staff on issues affecting agency and program operations.
• The Associate Counsel must possess the ability to perform assigned duties in a timely and accurate manner, be self-directed, and to produce accurate and thorough professional legal work.

Minimum Qualifications:
Active License to practice law in Tennessee is required.

Preferred Skills:

• Three or more years of continuous legal practice, preferably with state experience or litigation experience.
• Excellent research and writing skills.
• Proficient in use of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Candidate must be able to work cooperatively with Department program staff in diverse areas and flexible to work extra hours and days as necessary
• Candidate must be willing to travel (throughout the state of Tennessee) on occasion.
• Ability to make timely and effective decisions in keeping with the goals and mission of the Department.
• No prior or pending disciplinary actions with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility.

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