Attorney Advisor (Water Regulation)

General Job Information The Office of the People's Counsel ("OPC" or the "Office") is an independent agency of the District of Columbia government, headed by a People's Counsel appointed by the Mayor.

By law, it is the advocate for natural gas, electricity, water and telephone consumers and ratepayers in the District.

District of Columbia law designates OPC as a party to all utility-related proceedings before the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia and authorizes OPC to represent DC Water ratepayers in matters before that agency as well as local and federal regulatory agencies.

OPC also represents the interests of the District's natural gas and electricity ratepayers and consumers before federal regulatory agencies, federal and state courts, Congress, the Council of the District of Columbia, and PJM Interconnection.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES In consultation with management, the selectee will manage cases and matters related to proceedings involving complex, esoteric issues regarding the rates, terms, and conditions of service of DC water; analyze complex legal issues affecting questions of law and fact and render opinions on such issues; develop strategies for, and conduct in-depth, complex legal research on authorities and precedents on points of law; review and analyze opposing parties' pleadings and other position papers on controversial and complex issues; draft detailed and complex documents; prepare and coordinate litigation including pretrial discovery, briefs, motions, technical reports and studies, cross-examination, expert testimony and oral arguments.

Additionally, the selectee will engage in and coordinate litigation including pretrial discovery, briefs, motions, technical reports and studies, cross-examination, expert testimony and oral arguments; maintain familiarity with emerging water utility issues, cases, and legal developments; and provide management a weekly report of case activity.

Job knowledge * Possess a clear understanding of OPC's mission and function.

* Excellent working knowledge of water-utility regulatory principles.

* Excellent knowledge of administrative law, rules of evidence, rules of civil procedure, and regulatory guidelines.

* Excellent ability to analyze and interpret complex data and to disseminate information.

* Excellent skill in persuasive oral and written communication.

* Excellent research, analytical, and evaluation skills.

* Excellent litigation skills, including skills related to discovery, motions practice, brief/pleading writing, and administrative litigation.

* Ability to recognize need for and to maintain confidentiality of OPC/DC Water documents and OPC client information.

* Ability to work with other staff in a team oriented approach.

* Ability to interpret applicable laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines.

* Superior analytic, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.

* Ability to make persuasive arguments to the legal community and the public.

* Possess excellent public speaking skills.

* Ability to work with all consumers and staff of government agencies, including the ability to listen and to relate to differing viewpoints.

* Knowledge of and the ability to work effectively in the community.

* Excellent interpersonal skills.

QUALIFICATIONS Must have strong academic and professional credentials and proven analytical skills.

Three (3) to six (6) years of experience in administrative law litigation, with an emphasis on water-utility regulation (preferred). LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION Certification of Good Standing from the District of Columbia Bar WORKING CONDITIONS/ENVIRONMENT Work is performed in a typical office environment Promotion Potential None OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS The incumbents of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC personnel regulations, Suitability.

EEO STATEMENT The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.

Position Designation: This position is designated as Security Sensitive and therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC personnel regulations, Suitability.

This position requires a criminal background check, traffic record check (as applicable), and consumer credit check (as applicable).