Penn State Job Catalog

Additional levels that exist for this job profile can be seen below.

The Office of the Vice President and General Counsel Attorneys provide legal counsel and representation to The Pennsylvania State University including its schools, colleges, divisions, units, affiliates and related entities, including Penn State Health. The Office of General Counsel attorneys serve the University Board of Trustees, the President, officers, administrators, faculty, and staff in their official capacities.

• Research the law and provide legal advice/consultation/representation on varied matters including governance, international law, national security protocols and protection, contract compliance and assurance, acquisitions and procurement, intellectual property, information technology, etc.; interpret and implement constitutional, statutory, judicial, and administrative rule requirements
• Advise on, negotiate, draft, edit, review, and execute legal documents including contracts, agreements, briefs, pleadings, memoranda, correspondence, responses, and notices, etc.; assist with risk management strategies
• Evaluate case merit; work with senior management and the General Counsel to define strategies for defending the University, or for filing actions on behalf of the University; represent the University during judicial and administrative proceedings
• Advise when matters require outside counsel retention; retain and supervise outside counsel representation
• Assist in developing institutional policies, procedures, and programs; ensure compliance with laws and regulations; conduct training
• Represent the Office of General Counsel on University-wide committees
• Keep abreast of changes in the law; review new statutes, regulations, and opinions; attend continuing legal education courses

Level:

– Advanced Professional

Base Description:

– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.

Level Summary:

– Demonstrates proficient and comprehensive knowledge of defined skill areas/applications. Applies knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures of a particular field to decision-making and problem–solving. Works under minimum supervision on varied and sometimes difficult work assignments, conferring with supervisor or subject matter experts on unusual matters. May lead others or a team in completion of complex assignments. Interprets and communicates information clearly, accurately, and persuasively. Researches and tries new approaches when solving difficult or novel problems.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

– Indirect supervisor or mentor for other full–time employees
– May serve as direct supervisor for part–time, student, and/or temporary workers, volunteers, or a full–time employee

Fiscal Responsibilities:

– May validate and pay invoices
– May monitor/track budgets and funding

Problem Solving:

– Encounters generally routine problems with progressively more complex and/or varied problems
– Typically follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
– May apply specialized knowledge and skills to resolve complex and/or varied problems, with supervisor oversight
– Researches and tries new approaches when solving problems

Independence of Action:

– Works with minimal supervision on more difficult work assignments, conferring with supervisor on unusual matters
– Follows precedents and procedures
– May set priorities and organize work within general guidelines established by supervisor

Communication and Collaboration:

– Communicates internally and externally within working unit and the University
– May communicate with external audiences for business purposes
– Promotes open communication in a manner that builds relationships among team members
– Applies appropriate strategies for managing conflict; negotiate reasonable compromises; propose and evaluate possible solutions
– Interprets and communicates information, ideas and instructions clearly, accurately and persuasively both verbally and in written materials intended for distribution

• Comp Grade – 17
• Minimum – $141,700.00
• MidPoint – $180,700.00
• Maximum – $219,600.00