Legal Counsel and Special Projects

Overview

A growing network of public charter schools operating elementary and middle schools in the Bronx and Upper Manhattan, with plans to open three new elementary schools in Queens for the 2025-26 school year, is seeking a Legal Counsel with 4+ years of legal experience. The organization aims to provide high academic achievement combined with social-emotional development and equitable education opportunities for all students.

Responsibilities

• Research and provide legal advice on a broad range of issues including education law and regulations, special education, intellectual property, tax-exempt status, litigation, employment, contract review, building codes, and facilities/real estate.
• Draft charter applications and program descriptions.
• Develop and draft organizational policies and procedures.
• Identify grant opportunities and draft grant applications.
• Monitor education-related policy and legislative developments and support policy strategies to increase access to quality public education.
• Manage compliance reporting and oversight for regulatory and grant requirements.
• Support the operations team in building short-term and long-term operational practices and systems.
• Oversee and manage special projects critical to organizational growth.
• Interface with and manage relationships with outside counsel.
• Drive innovation by exploring new approaches and creative problem-solving.
• Identify and disseminate best practices and innovations to improve outcomes and processes.
• Collaborate as part of a lean startup team, supporting colleagues and taking on diverse projects as needed.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree and admission to the bar.
• Minimum of 4 years of legal experience.
• Strong knowledge of education law and related regulatory frameworks.
• Experience drafting legal documents, policies, and grant applications.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with charter schools or in the education sector.
• Familiarity with compliance and regulatory reporting.
• Experience managing outside counsel.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $100,000 to $125,000, with starting salary based on experience and internal equity.
• Eligibility for an annual discretionary, merit-based performance bonus.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Flexible spending accounts for medical and commuter expenses.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
• Monthly wellness and lifestyle stipend.
• Access to mental health resources including therapy sessions and mindfulness subscriptions.
• Technology provided including MacBook Air and mobile phone reimbursement.
• Fully stocked workspaces with snacks and beverages.
• Professional development resources including books.

Location & Work Schedule

• Network office located at 401 W. 218th St., New York, NY 10034.
• Hybrid work schedule with in-person work required on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Optional remote work on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, subject to team needs.
• Remote work arrangements considered on a case-by-case basis.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and a legal writing sample (10 pages or less).

Equal Opportunity

The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Work authorization in the U.S. is required.