Special Projects Attorney (Attorney V)

Mission The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will improve outcomes for all public‑school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems. Core Values We are Determined : We are committed and intentional in the pursuit of our main purpose, to improve outcomes for students. We are People‑Centered : We strive to attract, develop, and retain the most committed talent, representing the diversity of Texas, each contributing to our common vision for students. We are Learners : We seek evidence, reflect on success and failure, and try new approaches in the pursuit of excellence for our students. We are Servant Leaders : Above all else, we are public servants working to improve opportunities for students and provide support to those who serve them. Position Overview The Special Projects Attorney will provide advanced, highly independent legal services to support educator preparation, certification, and pathways policy development, rulemaking, and governance activities. This role advises senior leadership on complex legal matters; interprets and applies statutes and administrative rules; supports SBEC and Commissioner rulemaking; and represents the agency in administrative proceedings related to EPCE matters. The Special Projects Attorney reports to the Senior Director of Policy and Planning and collaborates closely with the Associate Commissioner of Educator Preparation, Certification, and Enforcement. Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates. Essential Functions Legal and Policy Strategy : Serves as a senior legal advisor to EPCE, advising the Associate Commissioner and other staff on development, interpretation, and enforcement of statutes and rules; responds to requests for legal advice through the EPCE legal portal; provides legislative support, including drafting bills, fiscal notes, testimony; and acts as a liaison to policymakers and the OAG. EPP Litigation and Administrative Proceedings : Litigates complex Educator Preparation Cases, drafting pleadings, scheduling hearings, preparing witnesses, representing the agency before SOAH, presenting cases to SBEC, and making oral presentations at hearings and board meetings. Rulemaking and Administrative Law Support : Ensures SBEC and Commissioner rulemaking is legally sufficient, enforceable, and compliant with administrative procedure requirements by reviewing and drafting rule language, fiscal impact statements, and advising on the Administrative Procedure Act. Legal Research : Conducts advanced research on state and federal law, prepares briefs, opinions, reports, investigates alleged violations, and maintains documentation supporting legal guidance. Collaboration and Leadership Support : Strengthens the Division’s legal capacity by coordinating across teams, acting as key liaison to SBEC, SBOE members, legislative offices, and supporting sustainable legal guidance systems. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Education: Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university. Experience: At least five (5) years of experience in administrative law; at least two (2) years full‑time legal experience in litigation as a licensed attorney. Other Qualifications Share the belief that all Texas students can achieve at high levels and succeed in college, career, or the military. At least two years of experience presenting complex information to members of a decision‑making body. Ability to set clear expectations and hold others accountable for performance. Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings. Knowledge of state and federal laws, regulations, and rules, including the Texas Administrative Procedures Act, the Texas Open Meetings Act, Chapter 21 of the Texas Education Code, and the Public Information Act. Knowledge of agency administrative rules and regulations, including 19 Texas Administrative Code Part 7. Skill in identifying problems, reviewing related information, developing and evaluating options, and implementing solutions. Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions or approaches. Ability to conduct legal research and analyze findings. Ability to draft, prepare, and interpret legal documents, policies, and procedures. Skill in interpreting and applying laws to specific cases. Ability to prepare cases for trial and conduct hearings. Skill in summarizing information and reconciling differences. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to plan, organize, and manage multiple tasks effectively, adapting to changing priorities. Ability to collaborate, train, and lead others while working effectively in a team environment. Proficiency in customer service, office technology, and standard computer software. Application Requirements: A resume, tailored cover letter, and short answer responses are required attachments. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants strongly being considered for employment must submit to a national criminal history background check. PP No phone calls or emails, please. Due to the high volume of applications, we do not accept telephone calls and cannot reply to all email inquiries. Only candidates selected for interview will be contacted. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age or veteran status, unless an applicant is entitled to the military employment preference. This position requires the applicant to meet agency standards and criteria which may include passing a pre‑employment criminal background check prior to being offered employment by the agency. #J-18808-Ljbffr Texas Education Agency