General Counsel

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities.

If selected, the incumbent serves as General Counsel of the IMLS. The incumbent will serve as the Counselor to the Director and Senior Policy Advisor. The incumbent renders advice to the Director, Deputies of the Offices of Museum and Library Services, and the management and staff of the IMLS. Typical work assignments will include but are not limited to the following: Represents the IMLS by presenting, to various audiences, the legal position of the agency; Renders legal opinions on behalf of the IMLS including interpretation of the IMLS' enabling legislation, conflicts of interests and ethics questions, constitutional issues, First Amendment issues, appropriations law, civil rights law, administrative law, contracts law, and other matters; Serves as the principal legal advisor to the Director, the National Museum and Library Services Board (NMLSB), and other IMLS officials; Serves as the Secretary of the presidentially appointed board; - Coordinating agency responsibilities under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA); Supervising subordinate attorney(s) and support staff within the Office of General Counsel; Serves as Designated Agency Ethics Official. Oversees office provision of ethics and Hatch Act guidance and training to agency staff, NMLSB members, and other stakeholders. Conducts or participates in discussions with Congressional Committee staff, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) officials, and other federal officials of private organizations, grantees, etc., concerning legal questions involved in projects or productions sponsored by the IMLS; Engages on legislation that best promotes the interests of museums and libraries and the IMLS. Performs other duties as assigned.