Staff Attorney

Application Deadline Date: 07/27/2026 Req ID: 54652 Department: Human Services Agency Location: Position Type: Exempt Schedule Type: Full Time Minimum Salary: N/A Maximum Salary: N/A Overview The Agency of Human Services (AHS) is seeking a qualified attorney to join its legal team as Staff Attorney for the Central Office (CO). AHS serves as the umbrella organization for all human services activities within the state government. AHS-CO is responsible for strategically leading the Agency and its departments in establishing and implementing agency-wide and government-wide policies and practices. AHS-CO oversees six departments, each with a distinct area of focus and responsibility- Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL); Department of Children and Families (DCF); Department of Corrections (DOC); Department of Mental Health (DMH); Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA); and Vermont Department of Health (VDH). As a whole, AHS creates and sustains a system of human services support to protect and support vulnerable Vermonters. We are looking for an individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys maintaining a diverse workload. The chosen candidate will work closely with a collegial team of attorneys in AHS-CO and its six departments. Job duties for this position may include providing legal advice on state and federal laws and regulations, contract and grant negotiations, overseeing litigation, analyzing legislation, and completing other short- and long-term legal projects, as assigned. This position will report to the AHS General Counsel. Preferred candidates will have relevant legal experience and demonstrated commitment to human services. This position is hybrid, in-office and remote. Under the State of Vermont Attorney Pay Plan, this position can be identified as a Staff Attorney II (2-5 years’ experience); Staff Attorney III (5-8 years’ experience); or Staff Attorney IV (8+ years’ experience). Who May Apply This position, Staff Attorney (Job Requisition #54652), is open to all State employees and external applicants. If you would like more information about this position, please contact [email protected] . Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting. Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered. AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights. Compensation Salary and benefits are based upon qualifications and experience in accordance with the State of Vermont Attorney Pay Plan . Salary Range is dependent on years’ experience and may range from $72,051 to $136,781 Minimum Qualifications Admission to the Vermont Bar or eligibility for admission by waiver, and legal experience for the desired role as outlined above— Staff Attorney II (2-5 years’ experience); Staff Attorney III (5-8 years’ experience); or Staff Attorney IV (8+ years’ experience). Preferred Qualifications Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Proven ability to develop, interpret, and implement policies and procedures in compliance with state and federal law. Knowledge of legal and policy issues relevant to human services. Familiarity with public records. Written and oral communication skills, with the ability to provide clear and practical legal guidance to both legal and non-legal audiences. Understanding of the role of an organizational attorney. Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden. Nearest Major Market: Barre Nearest Secondary Market: Montpelier