Working Title: Associate General Counsel
Job Class: Staff Attorney 3
Agency: Public Utilities Commission
- Job ID: 98268
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: Yes; see note
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 11/09/2026
- Closing Date: 11/30/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Public Utilities Comm-MAPE
- Division/Unit: Public Utilities Commission / Legal Unit
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: No
- Salary Range: $43.69 - $64.80 / hourly; $91,224 - $135,302 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MAPE
- FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is guiding the state through important changes in the energy and telecommunications sectors which have substantial impacts on the daily lives of Minnesotans. The Commission is hiring an Associate General Counsel to join in this mission-driven work. This is a new position that will report to the Deputy General Counsel and will coordinate with all units of the agency on an exciting portfolio of assignments.
The Associate General Counsel will be responsible for reviewing incoming filings in regulatory and permitting dockets, monitoring emerging and developing legal issues, and coordinating between the legal unit, assigned assistant attorneys general, and other units of the agency to ensure delivery of effective, timely legal advice consistent with Commission goals and priorities.
The Associate General Counsel will serve as the Commission’s lead advisor on internal appeals of utility-customer complaints that have been filed with the Commission’s Consumer Affair’s Office and appealed for full-Commission review. In resolving consumer appeals, the position holder will work closely with Commissioners on consumer-focused policy development and implementation. The selected candidate will also have opportunities to help refine the Commission’s consumer appeal procedures to ensure effective implementation of this developing program.
Additionally, the Associate General Counsel will provide legal advice to Commissioners and staff regarding issues in regulatory and permitting dockets as well as agency operations, and will support the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel in processing and responding to requests under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
Important: A writing sample is a requirement to be considered for this position. Please submit your writing sample before the closing date of this position to: olivia.moe@state.mn.us
Please Note: This career opportunity is based at the Commission offices in St. Paul, Minnesota and is not available for full-time remote work. This position will require you to work onsite or in-person for at least 50% of scheduled workdays each month (including travel and off-site meetings).
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission does not participate in E-Verify.
Minimum Qualifications
- JD degree from an ABA accredited law school and current license and in good standing to practice law in Minnesota, or the ability to become licensed in Minnesota within six months of hire.¿
- Four years’ experience as a practicing lawyer (which may include judicial clerkships), including one year of experience as a government attorney or otherwise practicing in the areas of administrative law, energy law, environmental law, telecommunications law, or government operations.
- Experience providing legal advice to clients and conducting legal research and analysis, including interpreting statutes, rules and case law.
Minimum Qualifications To Be Assessed At Interview
- Demonstrated excellent writing and oral communication skills.
- Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative.
- Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and to work across units in cross-functional teams.
- Ability to establish and maintain respectful and collaborative working relationships.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in Minnesota utility regulation, energy facility permitting, or environmental review.
- Familiarity with Minnesota Public Utilities Commission rules and procedures.
- Experience in state government or with state government requirements and procedures.
- Familiarity with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
- Experience responding to public requests for government data and/or managing document review and production.
- Familiarity with the Minnesota Administrative Procedure Act, and laws and rules governing state government operations.
- Familiarity with consumer-facing services provided by government agencies.
- Experience working with people of diverse backgrounds and marginalized communities.
Additional Requirements
Important: As noted above, a writing sample is a requirement to be considered for the position. You must submit your writing sample before the closing date to: olivia.moe@state.mn.us
This position also requires successful completion of a reference check and background screening.
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Jennifer Forside at jennifer.forside@state.mn.us or 651-539-1066.
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Jennifer Forside at jennifer.forside@state.mn.us.
About The Public Utilities Commission
The mission of the Commission is to improve the lives of all Minnesotans by ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable utility services at just and reasonable rates.
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.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
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 Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
