Description:

Who we are:
A Government Entity connects people with careers across the state. While we are based in Austin on the north lawn of the Texas State Capitol, we have offices statewide and many of our positions are suitable for teleworking. We're a Family Friendly Certified Workplace with great work-life balance, competitive salaries, extensive opportunities for training and development, and fantastic benefits.

This position is onsite or hybrid (teleworking/onsite).

You must be a Texas resident to work for the Texas Workforce Commission or willing to relocate to Texas.

Who You Are:
A senior-level attorney with managerial experience who has demonstrated experience in privacy regulations and litigation procedures and can navigate the complexities of both fields. This leadership role will require a firm understanding of data privacy issues involving the agency (unemployment insurance claimants and vocational rehabilitation customers) and the federal and state laws regulating those programs.

What you will do:
The General Counsel III will provide leadership and supervision of the work of attorneys and support staff, regularly interfacing with division and agency management and external stakeholders. You will direct, plan, coordinate and monitor emerging legal precedent as well as developments in privacy, security and data governance; and provide legal advice, counsel, and assistance for emerging privacy-related issues. This position will consult with agency management to address the legal needs of internal business operations and research solutions for risk mitigation. You will be responsible for managing the legal team responsible for the daily oversight of the civil litigation docket encompassing judicial review proceedings, contractual disputes, employment claims and program matters. Performs advanced and/or managerial (senior-level) legal work. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

You Will Be Trusted To:
Lead the Privacy Governance Team working closely with senior officials in the agency to ensure policies and resources are updated in accordance with the evolving nature of privacy regulations. Stay updated on the latest privacy laws, regulations, and industry standards to ensure the agency's compliance. Provide training and communicate best practices for handling sensitive personal information. Monitor legal precedent and lead an experienced team on the agency's large, complex or highest-profile legal matters. Problem solve and devise creative solutions to complex legal challenges and disputes. Perform other duties as assigned.

You Qualify With:
Graduation from an accredited law school approved by the American Bar Association and admission to the State Bar of Texas plus four years of experience in the full-time practice of law, or four years of full-time experience in a responsible position involving legal work as a primary duty.

You Are a Great Fit With:
  • Experience in legal work. Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
  • Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings; state and federal laws, regulations, and rules; and agency administrative rules and regulations.
  • Skill in identifying problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Ability to prepare legal documents, formulate, coordinate, and establish policies and procedures, conduct research, interpret and apply laws and summarize findings.
  • Ability to train, coordinate and supervise the work of others.
  • 5 or more years of legal experience advising clients on regulatory matters and compliance with state and federal laws
  • Knowledge of privacy laws and regulations and 1 or more years of counseling clients on privacy risks and best practices
  • Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) designation
  • 3 or more years of managing attorneys and legal staff
  • Managing cases from start to finish, including first chair civil trial experience