Counsel (2 vacancies) - Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Housin

Organization:

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable CommunitiesExecutive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC)

is seeking a Counsel in the Office of the General Counsel!AGENCY MISSION:

The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is charged with creating more homes in Massachusetts and lowering housing costs for residents. EOHLC works with municipalities, local housing authorities, non-profit organizations, and development partners to provide affordable housing options, financial assistance, and other support to Massachusetts communities.OVERVIEW OF ROLE:

The Counsel provides legal services and support to EOHLC staff with a primary focus on housing development, zoning and land use law, and affordable housing.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Provides written and oral legal advice concerning federal, state and local law, regulations, guidelines and EOHLC policy to EOHLC staff, focusing on housing development, zoning and land use law, and affordable housing.Drafts and reviews legal documents, legislation, regulations and policy guidance related to EOHLC programs.Acts as liaison to the Office of the Attorney General in litigation involving EOHLC, preparing documents as necessary.Develops legal and policy guidance for new initiatives and programs, as needed.Drafts and reviews a variety of other legal and administrative documents relative to land use law and programs administered by EOHLC.Drafts and reviews rules, regulations, guidelines, legal opinions and legislation regarding programs administered by EOHLC, particularly housing development and rental assistance programs.Participates in training sessions for EOHLC staff, recipients of EOHLC assistance and local officials.Participates in inter-agency working groups and negotiations.Communicates with colleagues from other agencies and collaborates with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to share information, resolve issues, and develop or implement new programs.Prepares draft rulings, memoranda and decisions for the Housing Appeals Committee.May conduct adjudicatory hearings pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40B and c. 30A.Responds to requests for information and public records as necessary.Performs other duties as needed, including regulation promulgation, procurement, and analysis and interpretation of statutes, regulations and administrative guidance relating to EOHLC programs.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Knowledge of theory, principles and practices of law.Knowledge of the methods and ability to conduct legal research and technical report writing.Ability to read and interpret legal documents and apply the law, rules and regulations governing agency operations.Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment in making decisions and offering advice.Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people.Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.Ability to use a computer to conduct research, manage databases, and produce written documents.Ability to lead or work with cross-functional project teams.Ability to manage multiple projects and project teams.Ability to exercise discretion in safeguarding information through compliance with rules of disclosure.Ability to oversee and plan work according to the nature of the job to be accomplished.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Good judgment in making decisions and offering advice.Ability to read and comprehend statutes and regulations and to draft new regulations and amendments.Excellent oral and written communication skills.Experience that evidences excellent analytical skills and pro-active problem-solving skills.Strong computer knowledge and at least intermediate proficiency using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.Experience working collaboratively in a remote work environment.Ability to independently determine specific tasks needed to accomplish an assignment.Excellent independent judgment, interpersonal skills and personal integrity.Knowledge of administrative procedures relating to adjudicatory hearings and regulations.Knowledge of zoning and land use laws and housing development programs.Ability to maintain accurate and thorough records and files.Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential material.Experience that evidences willingness to exercise initiative and respond rapidly to unanticipated events.Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary.Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s license or equivalent is required.MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law.HOW TO APPLY:Apply online at

https://massanf.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=240008VXAn Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.

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