Staff Attorney (Project Management)

Responsible for providing legal services and advice to departments and colleges at the University this includes but not limited to reviewing contracts, research, writing and advising on various legal issues.

Duties:

• Conducts legal research using resources such as legal documents, periodicals, statutes, textbooks, and other legal references, as well as internet-based search engines and software and prepare summaries of legal research.  
• Counsels and prepares University employees who are sued and/or are engaged in administrative hearings within the scope of their employment and/or are witnesses
• Utilizes computer software for contact review and policy work
• Researches and analyzes applicable law and/or policy.
• Presents factual and legal theories and arguments to departments both orally and in writing.
• Responsible for the review of all contracts for departments related to purchases, academic rotations, and professional services.   
• Assists the departments and colleges requiring legal services and advises on faculty grievances/appeals and student grievances/appeals. 
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Required Education:  Juris Doctorate (JD) from an American Bar Association (ABA) law school or ability to obtain one by hire date. 

Skills:

• Ability to speak, read and write clear, concise English
• Ability to accurately read and understand written materials and instructions
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Detail oriented for accuracy of data and information
• Highly organized and able to handle multiple projects and deadlines
• Able to communicate well and build rapport quickly with students, faculty and staff
• Must have impeccable legal research and writing skills
• Must be self-motivated and exhibit strict adherence to professional and ethical behavior
• Exceptional skills in accurately presenting factual and legal theories and arguments
• Advanced computer skills with wide knowledge of Microsoft Office and Word and familiarity with discovery management software and Westlaw
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision
• Must be proactive and able to assist the management, delegation, and coordination of tasks, as needed
• Must be able to read and interpret policy as well as State and Federal regulations
• Composition and proofreading skills

Certifications:

• License to practice law in Oklahoma and be in good standing or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire date

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Sit for prolonged periods. 
• Communicate effectively and listens. 
• Engages in repetitive motion.  Subject to stress caused by deadlines and workload.
• Standard office environment.

Departmental Preferences:

• Six to twelve months legal experience
• Duties Contracts - Reviews, evaluates, and negotiates standard, complex, and high-risk contracts for grants, research contracts, purchases and leases, services agreements, and similar contracts.
• Consults and collaborates with internal departments
• Transactional Law- Reviews and advises on transactional agreements related to the University's relationships with third parties
• General Higher Education Legal Services - Provides legal services and advice to the departments and colleges
• Researches and monitors relevant laws, regulations, policies, and procedures that impact purchase agreements, service agreements, grants, and contracts.
• Client Outreach and Training - Develops and participates in training programs to educate faculty, investigators, staff on the contract process and the University and legal requirements. Develops and conducts training programs for contracting.
• Higher education law experience

Supervision: None

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.