Job Information
University of Delaware Assistant/Associate General Counsel, Employment in Newark, Delaware
Assistant/Associate General Counsel, Employment
Job no: 501045
College / VP Area:VP and General Counsel
Work type: Staff
Location: Newark/Hybrid
Categories: Legal & Compliance, Full Time
PAY GRADE: 35E
CONTEXT OF THE JOB:
Office of General Counsel (“OGC”) attorneys have wide-ranging practices and must handle multiple, unrelated matters concurrently. All attorneys must be able to complete complex projects both independently and with direction from the General Counsel. Reporting into the Vice President and General Counsel, the Assistant/Associate General Counsel must be able to prioritize multiple competing priorities and communicate effectively with colleagues and clients. Experience working in an in-house environment, especially within higher education, will be strongly considered. The Assistant/Associate General Counsel will be expected to handle matters and transactions from beginning to end with minimal supervision, participate in team-wide process improvement initiatives, and provide advice and guidance on complex legal matters to the University leadership and departments.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
Serve as the primary advisor related to employment matters, labor relations, and student and academic affairs matters.
Represent the University and its employees in administrative proceedings.
Provide legal representation and advice in matters including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, tenure, discrimination, discipline, terminations, wage and hour, privacy, Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA, FLSA, unfair labor practice charges, grievances, arbitrations, including the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, and the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission charges.
Manage litigation and/or hearings regarding employment and labor issues.
Advise on the application and development of policies and procedures related to student issues including, student discipline, Title IX, policy development, residential life, academic affairs, student financial services, admissions, privacy and student activities.
Work closely with the Provost, student life and academic deans, Title IX coordinators, and other administrators to solve problems, prevent and resolve disputes and ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations and policies impacting student life at the University of Delaware.
Serve on committees and task forces charged with addressing student issues.
Advise on First Amendment and Free Speech issues.
Assist in preparing, reviewing, and interpreting legal documents (e.g., contracts, appointment letters, subpoenas, new policies/policy revisions).
Research and advise on judicial decisions and legislative developments impacting current University, college or department practices, as well as creating and recommending compliance/resolution strategies.
Work within the OGC to provide advice and counsel on a variety of other issues facing academic institutions and large employers as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited ABA law school and three years of experience as a practicing attorney.
Substantial expertise and experience in employment and labor law.
Prior employment in a higher education setting preferred.
Understanding of university faculty relations and the shared governance model preferred.
Expertise in other legal matters applicable to higher education institutions and/or non-profit organizations (e.g., intercollegiate athletics, research and sponsored programs, intellectual property, study abroad, Title IV of the Higher Education Act, donor and gift agreements) preferred.
State of Delaware law license or eligibility for licensure within twelve months of hire under an in-house limited license.
Experience in representing clients in internal grievances and administrative proceedings, labor arbitrations, agency charges, and state and federal court litigation.
Strong research and analytical skills, coupled with sound judgment.
Demonstrated ability to perform effectively under the pressure of frequent interruptions, conflicting demands, and changing priorities.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, capable of effectively communicating at all levels within the University and externally.
Strong client service orientation and skills.
Demonstrated ability to identify potential legal issues or long-term implications of policy and legal decisions.
Capacity to thrive in a collaborative, diverse environment and work independently with a high degree of motivation.
High ethical standards, reflecting honesty, integrity, and reliability.
Exceptional judgment in balancing legal risks with business strategy and establishing relationships with various constituencies.
Familiarity with applicable privacy laws, including FERPA, GDPR, and PIPL preferred.
Familiarity with laws and regulations applicable to colleges and universities, including Title IX, Title VI, Section 504, FERPA, and the Higher Education Act and Amendments preferred.
Demonstrated understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
Commitment to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.
Notice of Non-Discrimination, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
The University of Delaware does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, disability, religion, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in its employment, educational programs and activities, admissions policies, and scholarship and loan programs as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies. The University of Delaware also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence.
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