Attorney IV

Agency : Department of Commerce

Division : Utilities-Public Staff

Position Title : Attorney IV (NS)

Position Number :

Grade : LG09

About the Department of Commerce

The North Carolina Department of Commerce is the state’s lead agency for economic, community, and workforce development. The department works with local, regional, national, and international organizations to improve the economic well‑being and quality of life for all North Carolinians.

About the Public Staff

The Public Staff is an independent agency created in 1977 to review, investigate, and make appropriate recommendations to the North Carolina Utilities Commission. It represents the public in matters regarding rates, service, and consistency with public policy.

Position Summary

The Attorney IV will provide legal advice and representation to the Executive Director, members of the Public Staff, and the public in matters involving electric, natural gas, water and sewer, telecommunications, ferry, and household moving utilities. The role includes representation before the Utilities Commission, appellate courts, and federal regulatory agencies in cases ranging from small rate increases to large corporate mergers.

Responsibilities

• Advise the Public Staff and the public in formal proceedings before the Utilities Commission, appellate courts, and federal regulatory agencies.
• Provide legal and policy advice on public utility regulation to the Executive Director, staff, the General Assembly, other governmental bodies, and the public.
• Draft, review, and argue briefs, motions, and other legal documents.
• Conduct investigations, analyze formal and informal complaints, and collaborate on franchise, merger, and consolidation proceedings.
• Prepare and present oral arguments and cross‑examine witnesses in commission and appellate hearings.
• Support the commission in analysis of certificate applications and affiliate contracts.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of public utility regulation, statutes, and common law in North Carolina.
• Strong research and analytical skills to synthesize information, recognize legal implications, and recommend solutions.
• Excellent litigation skills, including discovery, expert witness handling, and oral advocacy before the Utilities Commission.
• Proficiency in appellate advocacy, including persuasive brief writing and oral argument preparation.
• Clear and persuasive written and verbal communication abilities for drafting statutes, rules, and public presentations.

Education and Experience Requirements

• License to practice law in North Carolina.
• Four (4) years of progressively responsible professional legal experience.

Benefits

• State health insurance and other health benefits.
• Retirement through the North Carolina State Retirement (TSERS) plan.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Supplemental benefits including flexible spending accounts, accident insurance, cancer and specified disease coverage, critical illness, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) and 457 savings plans.
• Employee discounts and eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

EEO Statement

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from unlawful discrimination. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities and for religious beliefs and practices.

Additional Contact Information

Recruiter: Maxine Anderson

Recruiter Email: