Deputy Legal Counsel

WHERE YOU WILL WORK

The Governor’s Office of Legal Counsel seeks a talented, motivated, and experienced attorney to serve as a Deputy Legal Counsel. The incumbent will advise the Governor, the Governor’s Office, and agencies on legal and policy challenges, provide legal analysis, draft executive orders, review legislation, engage with stakeholders, and support strategic policy implementation.

DESCRIPTION OF JOB

Primary Physical Work Location: State Capitol; 200 E Colfax Ave; Denver, Colorado

Location: Minimum 3 days a week in the office; up to 2 days remote.

FLSA Status: Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Job Type: Full time

Class Title: Non-classified

Closing Date: Review of application materials begins July 27, 2026 and continues until a finalist is identified.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The Deputy Legal Counsel will be part of an eight-member team, including attorneys, a paralegal, and an executive assistant. You will advise the Governor and agencies on complex legal matters, develop creative solutions, conduct research and analysis of laws and case law, provide timely written and oral legal opinions, engage stakeholders, and represent the Governor. Areas of focus may include criminal law, health care, education, the economy, energy, natural resources, ethics, and more.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Be admitted to a state bar and in good standing at time of application.
• Experience advising organizational leaders on complex matters.
• Commitment to public service and to Colorado.
• Excellent research, writing, and interpersonal skills with consultative and persuasive abilities.
• Curiosity and experience in critical and creative thinking across new areas of law.
• Strong work ethic, ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet short timelines.
• Experience working in government or politics.
• Strong people skills and experience working with diverse constituencies, focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Applicants must pass a thorough background check before employment and reside in Colorado once hired. This is an unclassified, at-will position. Due to the upcoming gubernatorial transition, any extension beyond January 13, 2027 is at the discretion of the next administration.

BENEFITS

• Annual leave accrued at 13.33 hours per month (4 weeks a year).
• Sick leave accrued at 6.66 hours per month (10 days a year).
• 12 paid holidays per year.
• Medical and dental plans.
• State‑paid life insurance policy of a minimum of $50,000 or 1× annual salary.
• Choice of two retirement plans through Colorado PERA.
• Voluntary 401(k) and 457 plans.
• State‑paid short‑term disability coverage.
• Optional life and disability plans.
• Credit Union membership.
• RTD pass.
• Training and professional development.

INCLUSION AND BELONGING

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. We are an equal‑opportunity employer and provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

ADAAA ACCOMMODATIONS

The Office of the Governor is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. We will assist individuals who have a disability with reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including the application process, interviewing, and job performance where accommodations do not impose an undue hardship. For accommodation requests, contact the ADAAA Staffing Coordinator at