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Form of workGENERAL DESCRIPTION
Work involves interpretation of laws governing public access to government information and drafting of informal Open Records letter rulings and formal Open Records decisions; educating citizens and public servants regarding their rights and obligations under the Public Information Act; reviewing and analyzing requests for rulings and researching and rendering legal opinions involving requests for public information; participating in public speaking at open government conferences; assisting in drafting bills for legislative consideration and analyzing proposed legislation.
The OAG is a dynamic state agency with over 4,000 employees throughout the State of Texas. As the State's law firm, the OAG provides exemplary legal representation in diverse areas of law. OAG employees enjoy excellent benefits (https://ers.texas.gov/Benefits-at-a-Glance) along with tremendous opportunities to do important work at a large, dynamic state agency making a positive difference in the lives of Texans. Assistant Attorneys General (AAGs) experience the challenge and honor of public service while enjoying a healthy work-life balance; hands-on legal experience; and engaging camaraderie in Austin, the scenic and lively capital of Texas. Level of Complexity of State Classification: Routine Level of Supervision of State Classification: Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS
Research, draft, edit and revise informal opinions and rulings, memoranda, correspondence, and publications
Performs related work as assigned
Maintains relevant knowledge necessary to perform essential job functions
Attends work regularly in compliance with agreed-upon work schedule
Ensures security and confidentiality of sensitive and/or protected information
Complies with all agency policies and procedures, including those pertaining to ethics and integrity
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Graduation from an accredited law school with a J.D.
Licensed as an attorney by the State of Texas
Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas
Knowledge of laws and legal principles and practices
Skill in using a computer for word-processing and data entry/retrieval
Skill in effective oral and written communication (Writing sample required at time of interview, if selected)
Skill in working cooperatively with attorneys, supervisors, and support staff
Ability to handle stressful situations
Ability to work with others in a professional office environment
Ability to receive and respond positively to constructive feedback
Ability to provide excellent customer service
Ability to work more than 40 hours as needed and in compliance with the FLSA
Ability to arrange for personal transportation for business-related travel
Ability to lift and relocate 30 lbs.
Skill in handling multiple tasks, prioritizing, and meeting deadlines
Skill in exercising sound judgment and effective decision making
Ability to work in person at assigned OAG work location, perform all assigned tasks at designated OAG work space within OAG work location, and perform in-person work with coworkers (e.g., collaborating, training, mentoring) for the entirety of every work week (unless on approved leave)
Ability to lift and relocate 30 lbs.
Ability to travel (including overnight travel) up to 5%
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in interpreting and applying the Public Information Act
Experience in administrative law
One to two years of experience in public service or government law
Experience in peer review environment
Other Language: Ability to proficiently read, write, and speak Spanish
TO APPLY
To apply for a job with the OAG, electronic applications can be submitted through either CAPPS Recruit or Work in Texas. A State of Texas application must be completed to be considered, and paper applications are not accepted. Your application for this position may subject you to a criminal background check pursuant to the Texas Government Code. Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at:
https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_Legal.pdf
THE OAG IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
