Senior Counsel

Job Information Office of the Public Advocate – Anticipated Vacancy – Opening Date: May 26, 2026, Closing Date: June 09, 2026, Grade / Admin Unit: 37 / Confidential Job Class Code: OC04, Salary: $97,281.60 - $137,883.20 per year, Position Number: 004250764, Location: Hallowell, Telework: Telework is available with the option to work remotely approximately 50% of the time. Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions. Overview The State of Maine, Executive Department, Office of the Public Advocate (OPA), represents the interests of Maine users of utility services, including electricity, natural gas, water and telecommunications. We are seeking an experienced attorney for the anticipated vacant position of Senior Counsel. As Senior Counsel, you will represent the interests of consumers in electricity, natural gas, telecommunications and water proceedings before the Maine Public Utilities Commission and applicable federal regulatory bodies; both individually and in collaboration with other OPA attorneys and consultants. In addition, you will assist in developing policy positions and consumer information for the Office's advocacy before the Maine Legislature and to the public at large. Representative Tasks Represents the Public Advocate in contested cases before the Public Utilities Commission. Coordinates the work of staff members and outside consultants employed as expert witnesses; acts as trial attorney in Commission hearings, including preparing and filing testimony, presenting direct evidence, cross‑examining witnesses, making oral argument on issues of fact, law, procedure; and researches and writes briefs and exceptions to examiners’ reports. Represents the Public Advocate in negotiating settlement in Commission cases; analyzes requests from consumers and utilities for Commission action; formulates and prepares positions on the issues, with assistance from other professional staff and expert consultants; participates in negotiations with utility attorneys, PUC staff attorneys and intervenor attorneys in resolving issues to avoid litigation. Represents the Public Advocate through appellate briefs and oral argument before the Supreme Judicial Court in appellate cases evolving from Commission orders or other action in which the Commission has an interest. Interprets federal and state law as it affects utility operations and activities, and advises the Public Advocate and others thereof. Researches, drafts and comments on rules for the Commission; reviews and analyzes written and oral comments on proposed rules submitted by utilities and the public. Advises the Public Advocate on emerging policy issues related to electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications. Assists the Public Advocate and other staff members in developing consumer‑facing educational materials related to utility service. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of legal concepts and practices, court procedures, and rules of civil procedure and evidence. Ability to compose, review, and edit complex and/or technical legal correspondence. Ability to perform legal research and analysis, to prepare written legal briefs, motions, responses, and memoranda, to present oral arguments, and to make recommendations on policy. Demonstrated ability to function effectively as part of a team; and have strong legal advocacy, research, and writing skills. Good organizational and time management skills are essential. Knowledge of utility regulatory frameworks and principles. Minimum Qualifications A successful candidate will have a minimum of four years of experience practicing law. Applicants must be members of the Maine Bar in good standing or capable of being admitted within a reasonable time. Preference will be given to those candidates with prior experience with state or federal utility regulation, experience in litigation, practicing state or federal administrative law, or with professional experience or education in the fields of accounting, finance, engineering or economics. Equal Opportunity Employer As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. We are proud to support equal opportunity throughout employment, from recruitment through advancement, and we celebrate broad differences in the people who serve our communities. #J-18808-Ljbffr