Overview
The Office of General Counsel within a major city health department is seeking an Assistant General Counsel to join the Employment Law Unit (ELU). This unit handles legal matters related to non-managerial employees, including disciplinary actions, fitness for duty cases, and conflicts of interest issues. The role involves managing all phases of the disciplinary process, from investigations and drafting charges to mediation, negotiation, and prosecution through appeals. The position also includes providing legal advice on conflicts of interest and drafting waiver requests.
Responsibilities
- Conduct legal research relevant to employment law and disciplinary matters
- Draft disciplinary petitions, charges, and related legal documents
- Lead meetings with staff and union representatives to mediate and resolve cases early
- Counsel agency managers and strategize on disciplinary outcomes
- Represent the agency in litigation and administrative hearings
- Prepare evidence and documentation for disciplinary cases
- Draft and negotiate settlement agreements
- Appear in administrative venues via videoconference and in person, including the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, Office of Labor Relations, and Civil Service Commission
- Present training sessions to supervisory staff on progressive discipline and administrative disciplinary processes
- Draft Chapter 68 waiver requests related to conflicts of interest
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Office of General Counsel
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
- Member in good standing of the New York State Bar or registered to sit for the July 2026 Bar Exam
- Strong legal writing skills with attention to detail
- Experience or coursework in conflict resolution, mediation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), or critical thinking
- Excellent communication skills, including emotional intelligence and ability to build relationships with external stakeholders
- Commitment to advancing health equity and supporting racial justice
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in employment law or public sector legal practice
- Ability to organize case files and maintain legal databases efficiently
Compensation & Benefits
- Eligibility for federal and state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs
- Premium-free health insurance plan valued at over $10,000 annually (2024 assessment)
- Additional health, fitness, and financial benefits depending on union or benefit fund affiliation
- Defined benefit public sector pension plan
- Tax-deferred savings program
- Worksite wellness resources and programs
- Opportunity to work up to two days per week remotely, depending on position
- Job security associated with public sector employment
Location
- Appearances and meetings may be conducted via videoconference or in person at various administrative venues within the city
Additional Information
- Graduation from an accredited U.S. law school or admission to the New York State Bar is required
- Residency within the city is not required for this position
- The employer is an equal opportunity organization committed to diversity and inclusion, providing reasonable accommodations during the application and interview process upon request