The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) is recruiting for a highly skilled and motivated Deputy Chief Trial Counsel (Legal Practice Attorney Administrator 1) to join the Trial Division, which defends the State of Oregon, its agencies, and employees in civil litigation and pursues affirmative litigation to advance Oregon’s values. The Trial Division includes five major sections that handle a broad spectrum of state and federal litigation: Corrections Litigation Unit, Civil Litigation Section, Criminal and Collateral Remedies Litigation Section, Special Litigation Unit, and Federal Oversight Unit.
As the Deputy Chief Trial Counsel, you will serve as a key executive leader responsible for shaping the strategic direction, operational strength, and legal impact of the division. Working in close partnership with the Chief Trial Counsel, you will exercise strategic leadership by helping develop and implement division‑wide policies, long‑term operational plans, and forward‑looking strategic objectives that support consistent, high‑quality legal services across the state. You will oversee multiple legal sections, providing clear direction, fostering accountability, and promoting operational excellence while supporting section managers and senior trial attorneys in meeting performance standards and organizational goals. Through strong decision‑making and sound judgment, you will lead and coordinate significant civil litigation and legal services involving complex, high‑profile, and sensitive matters of statewide importance, ensuring that legal strategies are well‑reasoned, risk‑aware, and aligned with public policy priorities. In this role, you will serve as a trusted advisor to attorneys, state agencies, and state officials, offering expert guidance on nuanced legal issues while demonstrating integrity, discretion, and a commitment to public service.
Additionally, you will strengthen the division’s legal and operational capabilities by promoting continuous improvement in legal strategy, case management standards, and quality assurance practices. You will apply collaborative leadership and strong communication skills to build partnerships across teams, resolve cross‑functional challenges, and promote transparency in decision‑making. Your responsibilities will also include contributing to budget planning, monitoring expenditures, optimizing resource allocation, and evaluating program performance through data‑driven analysis, all of which support effective stewardship of public resources. As a people‑centered leader, you will play a pivotal role in workforce development by mentoring attorneys and staff, leading training initiatives, conducting performance evaluations, and cultivating an inclusive, growth‑oriented environment that supports employee engagement and continuous learning. Through these combined responsibilities, you will demonstrate competencies in change leadership, strategic thinking, team development, and organizational stewardship—helping to advance the mission, values, and long‑term success of the division.
This position may be based out of either the Portland or Salem office. Candidates should expect regular travel to offices other than their home office (at least one or two days each month). Depending on the needs of the division, the Deputy Chief may need to travel several days per week. Hybrid work is an option; however, the Deputy Chief should plan on working in a DOJ office at least two days per week.
The duties described above are representative of the duties expected to be assigned to this position; actual duties assigned will depend upon the strengths and interests of the successful applicant and the needs of the Trial Division.
For questions about this position, please contact Chief Trial Counsel Jose Klein at 503-385-6639.
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Closes November 13, 2026 at 11:58 p.m.