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The Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) is seeking a Counsel II to assist the General Counsel in all aspects of labor and employment law. This position involves representing the Secretariat, including two Massachusetts Veterans Homes (MVH), in administrative enforcement actions and litigation. The incumbent will provide legal advice to EOVS programs, develop legally sound employment policies and regulations, and ensure compliance with wage, hour, and anti-discrimination laws. Responsibilities include drafting and negotiating settlement agreements, representing EOVS in various legal forums, and coordinating enforcement cases with other law enforcement agencies. A minimum of two years of experience in labor and/or employment law is required, with public sector experience preferred. Experience working in a union setting or government agency, and familiarity with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, Civil Service Commission, and Department of Labor Relations is also preferred. Duties/Responsibilities: * Serve as primary attorney who advises EOVS, including the two MVH in all matters relating to employment law. * Serve as a litigation counsel who represents EOVS in administrative enforcement actions and other litigation. * Assist program staff and the General Counsel in developing legally sound employment policies, regulations and decisions, including wage and hour compliance, labor relationsand anti-discrimination. * Provide information to the public and regulated parties on agency regulations. * Represent EOVS in cases at the Division of Administrative Law Appeals, the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA), and other forums. * Draft and negotiate settlement agreements with regulated parties and employees. * Review and evaluate evidence. * Draft orders to show cause initiating formal adjudicatory proceedings. * Draft pleadings, discovery requests, motions, and memoranda of law in support of motions. * Respond to discovery requests. * Draft post-hearing briefs. * Advise EOVS on litigation strategy. * Coordinate EOVS enforcement cases with other law enforcement agencies. * Provide legal advice to one or more EOVS programs, as assigned at time of hire. * Perform other duties as required. _Pre-Offer Process:_ For BU and MI-MIV A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori__ Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website. * A minimum of two years of experience in labor and/or employment law. Public sector experience preferred. * Experience working in a union setting or government agency and with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, Civil Service Commission, and the Department of Labor Relations. * Knowledge of theory, principles, and practices of law including labor and employment laws. * Knowledge of the terminology, symbols, and standard abbreviations used in legal practice. * Ability to read and interpret legal documents such as decisions, briefs, opinions, and contracts. * Ability to understand, explain, and apply the laws, rules and regulation policies governing agency operations and assigned unit activities. * Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of legal data, to draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations. * Knowledge of procedures followed in courtroom and administrative proceedings. * Knowledge of the methods of technical and general report writing. * Knowledge of legal research methods and procedures. * Ability to lead or work with cross-functional project teams. * Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in handling confidential information. * Ability to work independently. * Ability to gather information through questioning and observing individuals and by examining records and documents. * Ability to maintain a calm manner in stressful and/or emergency situations. * Ability to give written and oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner. * Ability to write concisely and effectively to express thoughts clearly and to develop ideas in logical sequence. * Ability to make and present effective oral presentations. * Ability to travel throughout the Commonwealth as assigned and as necessary. * Ability to exercise discretion in safeguarding information through compliance with rules of disclosure. First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and (A) at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law. Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid Motor Vehicle Drivers License at a Class level specific to assignment. *Comprehensive Benefits* When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Job: Legal Services* *Organization: Executive Office of Veterans Services *Title: *Labor and Employment Law Counsel Location: Massachusetts-600 Washington Street Requisition ID: 240005K3