Position Function:
Mississippi State University (MSU) seeks an experienced and dynamic attorney to join its Office of General Counsel. This position will serve as legal counsel in a wide range of matters with a particular focus on the University’s Intercollegiate Athletics Department.
Department Profile:
The Mississippi State University Office of General Counsel represents Mississippi State University (MSU) and advises its President, Vice Presidents, and other Administrators on legal issues affecting the University and its operation.
The Office of General Counsel analyzes legal implications in policy decisions relating to federal and state laws, regulations, and policies of the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning. The office’s goal is to provide timely, accurate, and professional legal advice to MSU to accomplish what is often referred to as preventive law.
The Office of General Counsel has a complex practice covering a wide range of legal areas, including but not limited to federal and state constitutional and public law issues, labor and employment, litigation, public contracting, intellectual property, research and technology transfer, business transactions, construction, administrative law, and public safety.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Provide legal counsel and strategic guidance on all issues impacting MSU Athletics, including compliance with all federal and state laws, IHL Board of Trustees and University Policies, NCAA or other applicable rules, SEC policies, and other relevant governing body regulations.
• Monitor and interpret evolving state and federal legislation and changes by rule and policy making bodies, assessing their impact on the Athletics Department and making recommendations for institutional responses.
• Negotiate, draft, review, and monitor contracts arising in the university Athletics Department, including employment contracts, business and revenue generating contracts, and facility use agreements.
• Collaborate with university leadership, compliance staff, and external legal counsel on enforcement matters, investigations, and dispute resolution.
• Provide training and education to student-athletes, coaches, and staff on legal matters related to NIL, legal compliance issues, and institutional policies.
• Represent or manage the university’s representation in administrative or litigation proceedings.
• Support risk management initiatives and ensure adherence to university policies and applicable laws.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in the state of Mississippi or eligibility for admission within a reasonable timeframe.
• Minimum of three (3) years of legal experience.
• Strong contract negotiation and drafting skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in intercollegiate athletics.
• Litigation and/or risk management experience.
• Familiarity with employment law issues.
• Familiarity with Mississippi law.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
* Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
* No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
* No or very limited physical effort required.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and references through the Mississippi State University hiring portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Mississippi State University is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
