Department: Office of the General Counsel

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Range beginning $121,800/yr, negotiable based on qualifications

Work Schedule: Mon-Fri 8-5

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Story

Our General Counsel office is the cornerstone of legal expertise, safeguarding the university’s interests, and navigating complex legal landscapes. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are seeking an astute professional to enhance our dynamic team. This role offers the unique opportunity to combine the fast-paced environment of a law firm with the enriching benefits of higher education.

This role is more than a position—it’s a chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant educational community. At WSU, you’ll find the intellectual challenge of a law firm combined with the cultural and developmental opportunities unique to the higher education sector.

Job Summary

Works with the General Counsel to provide in-house legal representation or the University. Principal responsibilities or the position include, but are not limited to, providing advice on federal and state laws as well as policies or the Kansas Board or Regents (KBOR) and the University; drafting and reviewing contracts, policies, procedures and other legal documents, and correspondence; representing the General Counsel office on University and community commissions, committees and councils; and representing the University in proceedings before federal and state courts and administrative agencies.

Essential Functions

Independently, reviews, revises, drafts and negotiates University contracts. Works closely with multiple internal and external parties, including but not limited to, industry partners, collaborating institutions, government agencies, and faculty and researchers. These include contracts for the purchase of goods and services, research agreements, real estate transactions, and affiliated corporation agreements. Provides legal advice involving matters arising from the operation of the University by studying and keeping abreast of developments in the law. Responsibilities may include advising about federal and state laws and regulations, and policies and procedures of the University and KBOR; serving on University committees; assisting in formulating policies and monitoring University compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements; reviewing internal discrimination complaints; advising on search and hiring practices; providing training on legal topics; representing the University in federal and state litigation and before federal and state administrative agencies and University grievance bodies; working with the Kansas Attorney General's Office and outside legal counsel.

Job Duties

Demonstrate the ability to work independently on complex legal matters, while seamlessly integrating within our team dynamics. Engage effectively with partners across the university at all levels, tailoring your approach to meet diverse needs and understanding. Handle a broad spectrum of legal issues affecting the university, providing sound advice, and innovative solutions. Maintain the highest standard of professionalism in all forms of communication, ensuring clarity and precision in legal matters.

Possess strong analytical skills and the ability to think critically to navigate complex legal challenges. Skilled in adjusting communication style to suit different audiences and contexts within the university setting. Bring a robust background in practicing law, ideally with exposure to higher education or a similar complex organizational structure. While you are capable of operating independently, your ability to collaborate and contribute to a team is essential.

Required Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctorate degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) accredited institution and admission to the Kansas State Bar within 12 months of hire date
• Five (5) years of experience practicing as an attorney

Required License/Certifications/Training:

Licensed to practice law in the state of Kansas and in good standing OR the ability to obtain a license to practice in the State of Kansas within 12 months of hire

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Contract and grant review and preparation.
• Ability to conduct complex legal research.
• Ability to create, compose, and edit legal opinions, policies, and other written materials.
• Ability to investigate, analyze information and draw conclusions.
• Ability to communicate appropriately and professionally, especially with confidential matters.
• Ability to counsel employees and resolve complaints and disputes with sound reasoning, decision and problem solving skills.
• Ability to demonstrate strong command of law in primary areas of legal support.
• Ability to monitor and inform on significant legal developments and state and federal compliance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Five years practice in areas of: contracts including development, review and negotiation; in-house counsel experience; background in policy writing and review; intellectual property; Federal contracting; and export and conflict interest.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.

Additional Physical Requirement: