Legal Education - Accreditation Counsel

ABA Chicago, 321 North Clark, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America •

Chicago, IL, USA

Posted Friday, February 27, 2026 at 6:00 AM

The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe.

The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world.

The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security. The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits.

Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI. Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Job Summary/General Purpose of Job

Provides counsel and expertise to the Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar. Serves in compliance role in assuring that the Section follows all US Dept of Education criteria, as well as the Section’s Standards, Rules and own Internal Operating Practices.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent)

• Provides expertise and policy guidance in developing, interpreting, and implementing the Section’s Standards governing the accreditation of law schools.
• Provides policy guidance and expertise to assure recognition of the Section of Legal Education by the Department of Education as the accreditation agency for United States law schools and for compliance with US Dept of Education regulations.
• Provides expertise and policy guidance to key Section committees, especially regarding Standards and Compliance; undertakes special projects in support of Section programs and projects.
• Provides regulatory, accreditation and educational expertise, research, analysis, consultation and guidance to accredited law schools and those seeking accreditation regarding the interpretation and application of the ABA Standards and Rules of Procedure for Approval of Law Schools.
• Management duties within the division include program planning and execution; and developing, supervising, and training professional staff and consultants as required.
• Assists in accreditation process, where needed.
• Performs other related duties, as required.

Required Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Requires superior analytical, communication, research, writing and editing skills.
• A minimum of five years’ experience in law practice, law teaching or law school administration, or administration of national, state, or local bar organizations.
• Must be self-starting, and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be self-starting, and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be well-organized, with demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and oversee a variety of projects at one time.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills are also necessary in supervising professionals, editing on a peer basis, and interacting with leaders of the profession inside and outside of the Section.

Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience

• Experience with accreditation is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Typical office work environment.

Extent of Travel Required in the Job

• Intermittent travel required.

The American Bar Association is an Equal Opportunity

Employer:

Disability/Veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with the American Bar Association, please call .

ABA Chicago, 321 North Clark, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America,