Higher Education Regulatory and Accreditation Senior Counsel

Overview

A national law firm with multiple U.S. locations is seeking a Higher Education Regulatory and Accreditation Senior Counsel with at least eight years of experience, including three years specializing in higher education regulatory matters. This position offers flexibility, including the possibility of a reduced billable-hour requirement and a flexible schedule. Candidates may be considered for any office location or a virtual office option.

Responsibilities

• Advise and represent clients on complex regulatory issues in the higher education sector
• Provide counsel on Title IV, financial aid, accreditation, institutional structural changes (including mergers and acquisitions), and general higher education compliance
• Develop firm knowledge and educational resources related to higher education law
• Manage projects independently and collaborate within a team environment
• Interface directly with clients on specific legal issues
• Supervise junior attorneys and paralegals
• Occasionally travel to client meetings and conferences

Requirements

• Minimum of eight years of legal experience, with at least three years focused on higher education regulatory matters
• Demonstrated expertise with Title IV, accreditation, and institutional structural changes/ownership transitions in higher education
• Experience working with higher education regulatory agencies, accrediting bodies, or in-house at educational institutions is preferred
• Preferred additional experience in privacy law beyond FERPA, research, healthcare, consumer finance, student funding mechanisms, accreditor recognition requirements, or foreign school operations
• Active bar license in the state of the office location or commitment to obtain one promptly
• Excellent academic credentials
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well under pressure
• Exceptional judgment and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and writing skills, with the ability to articulate legal strategies clearly

Preferred Qualifications

• Proactive, dynamic, and entrepreneurial mindset
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Commitment to community involvement

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience
• Salary ranges by location:
  • California, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Washington, and Washington, D.C.: $170,000 - $350,000
  • Colorado: $175,000 - $270,000
  • Minnesota: $170,000 - $300,000
  • Other markets vary based on market data
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)

Location

Multiple U.S. office locations available, including a virtual office option.