Senior Litigation Counsel

Summary

The primary purpose of this position is to represent the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) in proceedings before administrative agencies, tribunals, and state and federal courts in various civil litigation matters. The incumbent also oversees the Litigation counsel in lease enforcement proceedings and representation of the Authority in grievance hearings. In addition, the incumbent ensures that the legal interests of the Authority are protected and that all its activities comply with relevant codes, regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local laws. All activities must support the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s (“HACP” or “Authority”) mission, strategic goals, and objectives.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The position duties and responsibilities listed below describe the general nature and scope of work. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be required and assigned as needed.

-Manages the work of department staff, assigning, planning, and reviewing work, evaluating work performance, and completing performance evaluations in coordination with the Assistant General Counsel or the General Counsel.

-Supervise and mentor Legal Department interns.

-Represents the Authority in legal proceedings before administrative agencies, tribunals, and state and federal courts.

-Manage weekly Reasonable Accommodation Committee meetings and work with the Disability Compliance Department to review Reasonable Accommodation requests.

-Oversees the representation of the Authority in all lease enforcement matters, including appeals and grievance hearings for both the Public Housing and the Housing Choice Voucher programs by providing supervision of the Litigation Counsel.

-Acts as the Agency Open Records Officer if assigned by the General Counsel.

-Manages all aspects related to cell towers: negotiate contract renewals, procure cell consultants, address contract questions, and manage maintenance requests.

-Conducts legal research and analysis as necessary on any litigation matters affecting HACP.

-Prepares position statements, pleadings, motions, appeals, legal opinions, and other documents.

-Manages claims and litigation filed by or against HACP.

-Interacts with other attorneys and adversaries to negotiate settlement agreements.

-Assists with discovery, research, and case management.

-Analyzes and assists the Authority in complying with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

-Communicates clearly and on a timely basis with management.

-Responsible for bankruptcy, tax, and contract work with outside counsel. Manages monthly Bankruptcy meetings.

-Performs other duties as assigned.

 

Required Skills

-This position requires the incumbent to exhibit the following behavioral skills:

-Must have strong computer skills, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Emphasys/Elite, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, Westlaw, and LEXIS.

-Focused, efficient, and results-oriented. Strong organizational skills and self-directed work habits.

-Excellent oral and written communication skills.

 

Education and Experience

-Juris Doctorate and at least five (5) years of legal experience in litigation.

-Must be a member of the Pennsylvania Bar in good standing.

-Must have knowledge of EEO and fair housing laws, including Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA, the Fair Housing Act, and state and city anti-discrimination laws.

-Experience in bankruptcy tax and contract work is required.

-An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

 

Physical Demands

-Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

-At times, you must be able to lift up to 15 pounds.

 

Equal Opportunity Employer

HACP is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identification, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military service, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other legally-protected characteristic.