Department: Office of the General Counsel

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Range starting $137,000/yr, negotiated based on qualifications

Work Schedule: Mon-Fri 8a-5p

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. We are seeking a highly experienced attorney to fulfill this role which 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. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for academic institutions, a keen understanding of leadership dynamics, and the ability to navigate multifaceted legal challenges with precision and confidence with a strong background in business law, transactional law, and preferred experience in higher education. 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

• Advise University leadership on a broad range of business, and transactional matters, including governance, mergers, acquisitions, and contract negotiation.
• Provide legal counsel to university leaders on the law impacting the university, academic matters, regulatory compliance, accreditation, faculty affairs, and student issues.
• Draft and review complex agreements, MOUs, and institutional policies.
• Collaborate with University leadership on strategic initiatives.
• Stay current with evolving laws and trends in education and business sectors.
  
  

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:

• Possess strong analytical skills and the ability to think critically to navigate complex legal challenges.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Ability to investigate, analyze information and draw conclusions.
• A proactive, client-focused mindset with a commitment to excellence.
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently on complex legal matters, while seamlessly integrating within our team dynamics.
• Maintain the highest standard of professionalism in all forms of communication, ensuring clarity and precision in legal matters.
• Skilled in adjusting communication style to suit different audiences and contexts within the university setting.
• Ability to create, compose, and edit legal opinions, policies, and other written materials.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preferred practice experience with an emphasis in business and employment law.
• Experience working directly with academic institutions and faculty.
• Familiarity with FERPA, Title IX, accreditation standards, and other education-related regulations.
• Leadership experience.

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: