PUC Employment Opportunities | previous page

Position: Attorney
Agency: South Dakota Public Utilities Commission
Location: Pierre
Salary: $100,000 or more dependent upon qualifications and relevant experience
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Position Purpose:
Represent the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission in proceedings before the commission and the regulated industry. Research, analyze, write, and provide legal guidance regarding dockets such as utility tariff filings, transmission siting permit requests, contested cases, and other commission administrative proceedings. Present legal findings in writing and orally before the commission in meetings and hearings. Position represents the commission at various meetings and events involving utility industry, government representatives and constituents. Position reports to the commission’s executive director. To learn more about the Public Utilities Commission, its authority and its work, visit 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, with experience as an attorney.

• 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.

• 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;
• be 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 as well as commission 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.

• 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:
Interested candidates shall submit a resume, cover letter and contact information for three work-related references via email to puc@state.sd.us

South Dakota Public Utilities Commission
500 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, South Dakota 57501
PUC.sd.gov