Deputy Chief Legal Counsel

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Deputy Chief Legal Counsel. This position supports the Chief Legal Counsel in managing MDT's Legal Services Section. Responsible for providing advanced legal expertise, overseeing day-to-day legal operations, managing caseload distribution, and assisting with litigation strategy. Ensures consistent, high-quality legal services that meet MDT's strategic, operational, and compliance needs. This position supervises 6 Staff Attorneys and reports to the Chief Legal Counsel.

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
• Potential hybrid remote work arrangement available
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
• State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
• Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
• Benefits apply on first day of employment
• Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation’s mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values

• A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
• A cover letter of no more than two pages addressing your qualifications for the position.

• Bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school.
• 5 years of experience in practicing law.
• 1 year of supervision or team-lead experience.
• License to practice law in the State of Montana. Admission to Montana Courts and U.S. District Courts.
• State government legal experience is preferred.

• Bulleted list of qualifications Extensive knowledge of Montana and federal laws, including civil procedure, evidence, administrative law, eminent domain, environmental law, employment law, and contract law.
• Ability to develop litigation strategy, negotiate settlements, and manage complex legal matters.
• Strong leadership skills; ability to supervise and mentor attorneys.

The successful candidate must pass a name-based background investigation as a condition of employment.

The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at .

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.

Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire. Generally, sponsorship for work authorization is not available through the State of Montana.

Effective 5/26/2026, MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov