Description:
Job Summary:The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) is the state's civil rights enforcement agency. MDHR protects the civil rights of Minnesotans through the Minnesota Human Rights Act, one of the strongest civil rights laws in the country. The Associate General Counsel is a member of MDHR's legal team and will play a key role in achieving the transformational goals of MDHR.
This position serves as Associate General Counsel and reports to the Deputy General Counsel. In this position you will apply specialized legal knowledge in the areas of civil rights law to provide strategic advice during human rights investigations, ensure that the agency's discrimination findings meet applicable legal standards, and negotiate settlement agreements on behalf of the agency during conciliation. This position provides privileged legal advice and consultation to MDHR's Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, General Counsel, and agency managers and employees. This position will research and analyze state and federal statutes, rules, regulations, and state and federal case law to support the agency in decision-making and business planning activities.
Hybrid Work Environment: This position is eligible for up to a 50% hybrid telework arrangement. With a telework agreement, onsite attendance will be required for team meetings or as requested by management to meet business needs. Completion of a telework agreement will be required. Please review the Telework Policy for details.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
To be considered applicants must submit a cover letter describing their interest in upholding the civil rights of Minnesotans as a Staff Attorney of the Department of Human Rights.
Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and a current license to practice law in good standing in the State of Minnesota, plus four (4) years of experience in Minnesota civil rights or anti-discrimination law, including drafting legal memoranda and negotiating settlement agreements.
Applicants who meet the above will be further assessed on the following:
- Knowledge of federal and state anti-discrimination laws in employment, housing, public accommodations, public services, education, credit, and business.
- Demonstrated skill in conducting legal research, communicating complex legal concepts in plain language, and producing concise memos, correspondence, training, and presentations.
- Interpersonal and customer service skills, demonstrating the ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse communities.
- Organizational, time management, and project management skills, with the ability to handle competing priorities and manage multiple assignments.
- Ability to analyze complex issues and apply judgement to address multifaceted issues and determine best outcomes.
- Alignment with the Department's vision, mission, and values, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with the Minnesota Human Rights Act and Minnesota's Administrative Rules.
- Experience conducting all phases of state and/or federal court litigation.
- Knowledge of the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
- Knowledge of state investigative practices, processes, and procedures.
Additional Requirements:
Successful applicants must pass employment reference checks prior to employment. A written assessment or work sample may be part of the interview process.
Application Details
How to Apply:
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact:
If you have questions about this position, contact Janel Lane at janel.j.lane@state.mn.us or 651-201-2501.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Janel Lane at janel.j.lane@state.mn.us.
About Human Rights Dept
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights is the state's civil rights enforcement agency. We are charged with upholding the civil rights of Minnesotans under the Minnesota Human Rights Act, one of the strongest civil rights laws in the country. We are committed to creating an equitable and inclusive Minnesota, eliminating discrimination, and ending disparities and inequities. We work to breakdown policies and practices that perpetuate structural barriers, such as racism, ableism, homophobia, and ageism to build strong communities. To learn more about us, please visit www.mn.gov/mdhr.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth