Associate Counsel, Legal Affairs

Description:

General Functions:
The Associate Counsel provides legal support and counsel to Cook Inlet Tribal Council (CITC) and its affiliates under the direction of the Chief Legal Officer (CLO). This role assists in the review and drafting of contracts and legal documents, supports compliance efforts, and contributes to risk management initiatives. The Associate Counsel works collaboratively across departments to provide practical legal guidance aligned with CITC's mission, values, and regulatory obligations.

Leadership:
As a member of the Legal Affairs department, the Associate Counsel supports CITC's values by demonstrating belief in the potential of Our People, commitment to the mission and vision, and adherence to core principles and leadership competencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the Chief Legal Officer's direction, the Associate Counsel will:

• Draft, review, and assist in the negotiation of contracts, agreements, and other legal documents on behalf of CITC and its affiliates.
• Assist in identifying and analyzing areas of potential legal risk and recommend mitigating strategies to the CLO.
• Support compliance efforts by researching and monitoring applicable tribal, federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda, opinions, and summaries on a variety of legal matters.
• Assist with corporate governance matters, including preparation of board materials, resolutions, and organizational documents.
• Support the CLO in managing outside counsel relationships and coordinating on active legal matters.
• Provide legal support related to P.L. 93-638, P.L. 102-477, and other regulatory frameworks applicable to CITC's operations.
• Assist in maintaining and protecting the intellectual property rights of the organization.
• Support audits and financial controls in coordination with the Finance Department as needed.
• Collaborate with program and department staff to provide guidance on legal questions and promote awareness of compliance requirements.
• Assist in the preparation and maintenance of legal files, records, and documentation.
• Translate complex legal concepts into accessible guidance for non-legal staff and leadership.
• Support the CLO in risk management activities, including review of liability insurance programs and related documentation.
• Participate in organizational projects and initiatives as designated by the CLO.
• Serve as Acting CLO in the absence of the CLO, as designated.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Specifications:

• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Commitment to CITC's mission, values, and the communities it serves.

Minimum Core Competencies:
CITC Values, Respectful Leadership, Professionalism, Emotional Intelligence, Problem Solving/Critical Thinking, Communication Skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory state and federal fingerprint criminal background check.
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school; active membership in the Alaska Bar Association.
• Three (3) or more years of legal experience, preferably in business transactions, contracts, corporate governance, or a related field.
• Experience drafting and reviewing contracts and legal agreements.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks applicable to nonprofit, tribal, healthcare, or social service organizations.
• Experience with or working knowledge of P.L. 93-638 and P.L. 102-477 preferred.
• Background in or exposure to corporate governance practices preferred.
• Deep understanding of Alaska Native culture and communities.
• Experience working in or with tribal organizations, nonprofit, healthcare, or social service organizations preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Primarily works in an office setting, with extended periods of time at a desk and on a computer.
• May require prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and consistently working on a computer with repetitive motion.
• The need to occasionally move around the office to access filing cabinets, storage cabinets, and office equipment may be necessary.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally by utilizing proper lifting techniques and working in a safe manner.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents within this job. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and working conditions required of employees assigned to this job. Management has sole discretion to add or modify duties of the job and to designate other functions as essential at any time. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract.

---