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Position Description for Attorney
South Dakota Public Utilities Commission

Position Purpose
Represent the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. Research, analyze, write, and provide legal guidance regarding dockets open before the commission dealing with utility tariff filings, transmission siting permit requests, contested cases, and other commission administrative proceedings. This position works alongside other attorneys and analysts. Present legal findings in writing and orally for every assigned docket, during commission meetings and hearings, and for other meetings or purposes as requested. Position attends various meetings and events involving utility industry, government representatives and constituents. Position reports to the commission’s executive director.

The Public Utilities Commission’s authority, guiding statutes, dockets, and most other work is available via its website, PUC.sd.gov.

Qualifications
Must be a graduate from an ABA accredited law school and possess a Juris Doctorate. Must be licensed by the South Dakota State Bar to practice law in South Dakota.

Knowledge and Skills
-the law;
-the legislative process;
-Proper English usage;
-excellent legal research, critical thinking and analytical capabilities;
-grasp of accounting and economic principles;
-professional legal writing experience;
-excellent oral presentation and written communication skills;
-utility background or knowledge preferred; and
-must be qualified to practice law in South Dakota pursuant to SDCL 16-16-12.1.

Ability to
-research and interpret federal laws, state statutes and administrative rules;
-research and comprehend technical matters;
-prepare data requests and discovery materials;
-write concise briefs, direct testimony, legal notices, orders, rules and statutes;
-cross examine expert witnesses;
-participate in negotiated settlement agreements on behalf of commission;
-become proficient in the use of applicable office computer software programs;
-effectively organize and prioritize multiple projects and responsibilities with overlapping deadlines;
-be diplomatic, decisive, self-motivated, and trustworthy in dealing with confidential matters;
-work effectively and efficiently within procedural schedules, project timelines, and in preparation for regular commission meetings and hearings;
-travel and work evenings and weekends as needed; and
-lift at least 40 pounds to load and unload materials and equipment for meetings and events.

Additional Information
-In and out-of-state travel (by auto and airplane) and overnights are occasionally required to attend meetings, training sessions, conferences, and other events. A valid driver’s license is required.
-The State of South Dakota provides employer-paid health insurance plus 11 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options and retirement benefits. Access South Dakota’s benefit information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/.
-This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act.
-Equal Opportunity Employer.

To Apply
Please email your resume, cover letter and contact information for three career-related references to PUC@state.sd.us