Closing Date: 18th December, 2025
Description:
The Division of Legal Services (DLS) is looking for a Chief of Special Counsel to join our team in the Division Director Unit, located in Cole County.Job Posting Number: 4100 8889025
Semi-monthly salary: The current rate for this position is $4,897.70. Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g. shift, or time-of-service pay).
Annual salary: $117,544.75
Job Location: Statewide - All are encouraged to apply as locations may continue to become available.
Why you'll love this position: The Department of Social Services (DSS) partners with families and communities to protect children, rehabilitate youth and move families to self-sufficiency so that Missourians can lead safe, healthy, and productive lives. DLS supports the legal needs of the Department, and attorneys within the division enjoy a diverse practice within multiple areas of the law, including state rulemaking, and federal regulatory interpretation, compliance, and advocacy.
Responsibilities - What you'll do
As Chief of Special Counsel, you will work directly with the Division Director and Deputy Division Director on special assignments, including a host of legal services, involving the department, and often collaborating across divisions to give consistent and sound legal advice allowing them to operate their programs within the parameters of federal and state laws and regulations. Work will include directly managing three Deputy Chiefs of Special Counsel. You will oversee the work of the Deputy Chiefs in the management of special counsel duties to include but not limited to advising the divisions, assisting with drafting and reviewing divisional policy and state regulations, legal documents and opinions, contracts and Memorandums of Understanding. You will provide consultative support to the Missouri Attorney General (AGO) Litigation Unit where DSS is named as defendant, and actively participate in and/or present at departmental and divisional meetings, cross-divisional meetings, and cross-departmental meetings. In addition, you will be expected to assist in executive leadership strategic planning for the Division of Legal Services, to include development of a multi-year roadmap, messaging and implementation.
You must be well-organized, able to perform case analyses, spot issues, and be proficient with time management.
Qualifications - All you need for success
Minimum Qualifications:
A Juris Doctor from an accredited institution and member of The Missouri Bar. Five or more years' experience practicing as a licensed attorney. Experience in litigation and a background in juvenile, public benefit, family, and/or administrative law are preferred but not required. Excellent research and writing skills are required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ability to review, analyze, and/or interpret federal and state laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures as related to the assigned programs.
- Previous work experience with the Department of Social Services, or at a related agency in state or federal government.
- Ability to handle sensitive and complex legal and personnel issues with professionalism and integrity.
- Previous experience as in-house counsel or a similar general counsel role.
- Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of management and supervision.
- Understanding of data management.
- Strong communication and advocacy skills.
- Ability to manage a diverse caseload with efficiency and attention to detail.
- Willingness to work in varied settings and adapt as necessary.
- Collaborative spirit to work effectively with support staff and legal team members.
- Openness to continuous learning and participation in training programs.
- Pursuant to State Law, this position requires accreditation, licensure, and/or professional license which is only available to holders of specific post-secondary degrees.
Job Details - More reasons to love this position
The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found here.
Contact Details - If you have questions or require any accommodations to participate in the application or interview process please contact:
If you have questions about this position, please contact: Joyce Luebbering at Joyce.Luebbering@dss.mo.gov
If you experience accessibility issues while applying, please contact Courtney Hall at Courtney.A.Hall@dss.mo.gov or call 573-751-4244.
Recruitment Area: All qualified applicants.
Application Deadline: December 18th, 2025
The State of Missouri is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to developing and maintaining a talented workforce.
