Who May Apply: Open to all qualified applicants

Date Posted: 7/31/2024

Closing Date: 8/14/2024

Staff Attorney 1 Salary Level: $76,000 - $120,000 annually

Staff Attorney 2 Salary Level: $105,500 - $163,500 annually

Staff Attorney 3 Salary Level: $113,000 - $174,500 annually

Job Summary

The Office of Attorney General Keith Ellison has a clear mission: we help Minnesotans afford their lives and live with dignity, safety, and respect.  We are a dynamic group of dedicated professionals who choose public service as a calling, and we are actively and intentionally committed to supporting an internal culture that affirms that calling. The Office is one of Minnesota’s largest public law offices and as of 2024, has been recognized as a Star Tribune Top Workplace Minnesota for four years in a row and Top Workplace USA for three years in a row.

The Office is currently seeking an Assistant Attorney General (AAG) in the Human Services Division of the Office.

The Human Services Division provides litigation services and legal counsel to the Department of Human Services (DHS), the state’s largest agency. AAGs in the division represent DHS in a broad range of cases involving health care, licensing, children and family services, and civil commitment. AAGs regularly handle cases in state and federal district court, state and federal appellate courts, and the Office of Administrative Hearings. Human Services Division AAGs regularly argued at the Minnesota Court of Appeals, the Minnesota Supreme Court, and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Attorneys also frequently appear in evidentiary hearings and trials in a variety of forums.

This role affords attorneys the opportunity to:

• Represent DHS in different forums – from state and federal courts to administrative agency appeals
• Work on all aspects of civil litigation, from initial answer or Rule 12 motion, through discovery, motion practice, mediation, trial, and appeal
• Work collaboratively with attorneys both within the division and at DHS
• Work in an inclusive, creative, and collaborative work environment
• Travel occasionally throughout Minnesota, as cases can be venued anywhere in the state

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from a law school accredited by the ABA and licensed to practice in the State of Minnesota (or able to obtain licensure within 90 days of hire)
• Outstanding writing, research, and oral communication/advocacy skills
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to interact successfully with clients, stakeholders, and members of the public
• Proven ability to multitask, including by managing an active caseload or multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines
• Commitment to public service
• Ability to travel to counties across the state

IMPORTANT! All applicants must prepare two documents to upload and submit with their application: 1) Resume; and 2) A cover letter with a writing sample (of up to five pages) in one document.

To be considered at the S2 level, candidates must have at least 6 years of directly related experience.

To be considered at the S3 level, candidates must have at least 12 years of directly related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 or more years of civil litigation experience encompassing all stages (ESI and document review, written discovery, depositions, motion practice, trials, appeals)
• Experience using electronic files, systems, and case management tools
• Previous experience in public sector work or representation

How to Apply

Interested applicants must apply online through the State of Minnesota Careers website, which is the State’s official application and hiring site. The deadline for applications is Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

1. Go to www.mn.gov/careers;
2. Apply for posting number 78941
3. Direct Link

Do not forget to upload: 1) Resume; and 2) A cover letter with a writing sample (of up to five pages).

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact Grace Cabrera at grace.cabrera@ag.state.mn.us or (651) 757-1280.

Why Work For Us 

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• Fertility care, including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.