Associate Counsel (Department of Human Services)
State of Tennessee
last date
6 July 2026
Location/Place/Mode
Nashville, TN (Hybrid)
Eligibility
Must have an active license to practice law in Tennessee with no prior or pending disciplinary actions with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility. Preferred: 3+ years of relevant legal experience, strong litigation experience, and excellent research and writing skills.
Opportunity
Complete Guide: Associate Counsel at State of Tennessee (Department of Human Services)
The State of Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) is currently seeking qualified and experienced legal professionals for the position of Associate Counsel (Job ID: 78519). This role is housed within the DHS Office of General Counsel in Davidson County (Nashville), TN. Operating under the Alternative Workplace Solutions (AWS) model, this is a hybrid position requiring regular in-office attendance in Nashville and up to 10% statewide travel.
About the Department of Human Services (DHS)
The mission of the Tennessee DHS is to strengthen Tennessee by strengthening Tennesseans. The Office of General Counsel plays a pivotal role in this mission by providing comprehensive legal advice to all DHS programs, representing the department in judicial and administrative litigation, drafting departmental rules, and analyzing legislation affecting the department.
Key Responsibilities
The selected Associate Counsel will handle a diverse portfolio of legal matters. Primary duties include:
- Representing DHS in court and administrative forums across the state in cases concerning child and adult care licensing, adult protective services, and vocational rehabilitation.
- Conducting extensive legal research on federal and state laws, regulations, and case law.
- Drafting legal memoranda, briefs, and advisory opinions to guide DHS program operations and staff.
- Collaborating directly with the Senior Associate Counsel on complex legal writing and research projects.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for the role:
- Bar Admission: Must possess an active license to practice law in the State of Tennessee.
- Disciplinary Record: No prior or pending disciplinary actions with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility.
- Experience (Preferred): 3+ years of relevant legal experience, with a strong background in litigation.
- Skills: Exceptional legal research, writing, and analytical skills, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office products.
- Flexibility: Willingness to travel statewide (up to 10%) and work additional hours as required.
Compensation & Work Structure
This is a full-time, Executive Service position offering a competitive annual salary range of $103,440.00 to $134,244.00. The position features a hybrid work arrangement (Alternative Workplace Solutions), combining remote work with scheduled in-office days at the Nashville headquarters.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can access the official job notification and application details directly through the State of Tennessee's portal. Ensure your application materials, including a detailed resume and cover letter, are submitted before the closing date.
Application Deadline: July 6, 2026