Director for Government Programs Social Justice Initiatives Columbia Law School

Director for Government Programs          

Social Justice Initiatives

Columbia Law School

Reporting to the Dean of Social Justice Initiatives, the Director for Government Programs assumes leadership for the coordination and delivery of counseling, programmatic and experiential resources for students interested in careers in local, state and Federal governments and for graduates desirous of entering those sectors. The incumbent is also responsible for cultivating and sustaining relationships with government employers and building new opportunities and career pipelines in the government sector for Columbia students and graduates.

CHARACTERISTICS/RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Creates and executes a professional development program for Columbia Law students and graduates, focused on the career skills, knowledge and competencies necessary to have thriving careers in government service. Offerings may include speakers, panel discussions, symposia, networking events and other professional development opportunities.
2. Provides advice and strategic support to Columbia Law students and graduates interested in pursuing opportunities or careers in the government sector.
3. Establishes and maintains strategic relationships with organizations and individuals in government practice and related communities, including but not limited to outreach to those that may provide Columbia Law students with internships or job opportunities.
4. Develops and maintains an expertise with respect to local, state and Federal government hiring practices and trends; and helps source opportunities for lawyers through outreach and regular, extensive research, which may include attendance and participation in meetings and conferences.
5. Creates and disseminates job search resources regarding government legal positions, including but not limited to policies and best practices guides, web-based guides and other written and digital resources and materials.
6. Plans and coordinates employer presentations, including on-campus interviewing, career fairs and similar events on campus and off.
7. Oversees selection process for Columbia government fellowship programs.
8. Speaks at relevant Social Justice Initiatives (SJI) sponsored and outside events; represents SJI at relevant meetings at the Law School and elsewhere.
9. Liaises with the Development and Alumni Relations Office to identify students and programs eligible for special funding sources and to develop new sources.
10. Works closely with the other SJI staff, the Office of Career Services, Law School faculty and others to harmonize government service, social justice, judicial and corporate professional development programs.
11. Participates in SJI subcommittees and advocacy-oriented work, including activities promoting social and racial justice on campus.
12. Performs additional responsibilities as assigned and requested.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

BA and JD degree required. Five years of professional experience as a lawyer for the government or the equivalent combination of education and experience required. A vision of how a law school can provide the highest-quality assistance to Columbia students and graduates regarding government service necessary. Experience as a counselor for or manager of an educational or internship program regarding government strongly preferred. Superior research, oral and written communication skills (including public speaking); and outstanding interpersonal and organization skills and computer literacy required. Ability to design and manage own projects with minimal supervision, to be part of a collegial team, to work under pressure and to balance competing responsibilities necessary. Availability for travel, evening and weekend work required. Must be able to work with diverse constituencies and support an inclusive work environment.

Please apply here: https://opportunities.columbia.edu/en-us/job/521715/director-for-government-programs

Columbia University is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran and is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.