Assistant Counsel

The duties that the incumbent of the vacancy will be expected to perform. Duties Description The Assistant Counsel, NS-25, will work in the Litigation and Enforcement Section of the Office of General Counsel (OGC) on legal issues related to compliance with the Public Service Law, Commission regulations and orders and other applicable statutes. Under the direction of supervising attorneys, duties would include but are not limited to: Appearing for and on behalf of the Public Service Commission (Commission) and the People of the State of New York (utility consumers) in administrative and legal proceedings pertaining to electric, natural gas, water, and telecommunications services before various state and/or federal regulatory agencies in a litigation, investigation, or enforcement context. Analyzing potential violations of Public Service Law and Commission regulations and ordering and making recommendations related to commencing investigations and/or enforcement actions. Representing the Commission and the Department in Civil Practice Laws and Rules (CLPR) Article 78 proceedings seeking review of agency determinations in trial and appellate courts. Bringing judicial enforcement actions before the courts of New York, when appropriate. Leading investigations assigned by the Director of the Litigation and Enforcement Section. Conducting research and preparing legal memoranda related to actions of the Commission including, without limitation, consumer protection matters. Drafting orders to carry out all recommendations submitted to, and directives promulgated by the Commission. Examining witnesses in investigations and proceedings conducted by and before the Commission. Researching and interpreting complex areas of regulatory law, Commission decisions and business practices, as well as economic or public policies.
The minimum qualifications required for this vacancy. Minimum Qualifications Admission to the New York State Bar and two years of experience in the practice of law subsequent to Bar admission.Preferred candidates would have prior litigation and/or government prosecutor experience, strong communication and investigation skills, and demonstrate strong research, writing, and oral advocacy skills. Experience in regulatory law including the energy, telecommunications, or water sectors is also preferred.
Additional comments regarding the vacancy. Additional Comments About the Department: The New York State Department of Public Service (DPS or Department) works to: ensure safe, affordable, and reliable access to electric, gas, steam, water, and telecommunications services at just and reasonable rates for New York State customers, protect the natural environment, reduce greenhouse gas emissions via transmission and siting of renewable energy resources, and augment the resiliency of utility infrastructure. Learn more about DPS and how you can make a difference by checking out our video and more at: https://dps.ny.gov/employment-opportunitiesRemarks: Salary will be commensurate with experience. This is an appointment to a position in the exempt jurisdictional class. As such, the incumbent of this position would serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. Appointment to this position is contingent upon Division of Budget approval.Equal Opportunity Employer: The Department of Public Service is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know by contacting the Designee for Reasonable Accommodations (DRA) and Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator which can be found under the Accessibility Link on the Department?s webpage at https://dps.ny.gov.
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