Chief Legal Counsel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CSI Overview
CSI is tasked with protecting Montanans by regulating two of the state's largest industries:  securities and insurance.  As a criminal justice agency, we protect Montanans through public education, regulation of covered entities, and vigorous enforcement of the law, ensuring accountability for fraudsters and justice for their victims.  For more information, please visit our website HERE.  

This position is open until filled.  Candidates applying through September 15, 2026, will be included in the first application review.

About this Opportunity 
The Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Office of the Montana State Auditor, (CSI) is seeking a Deputy Chief Legal Counsel to help lead the Legal Division.  

         Salary:  $125,000 - $130,000 depending on experience

         Position Type:  Full Time

         Job Location:  Helena, Montana (potential hybrid or remote work depending on the circumstances)

         Relocation Expenses:  Negotiable

         Application Requirements:  Cover letter, resume, writing sample, and law school transcripts (unofficial is acceptable)

What You'll Do
Key responsibilities of this position include:

• Serve as lead counsel for special projects and key litigation matters, including drafting pleadings and briefs, representing CSI in court appearances, and representing CSI on appeal.

       Participate in the supervision and management of CSI's Legal Division to ensure the timely, accurate, and professional delivery of legal services.

       Manage and supervise other attorneys and paralegals, including supervising cases from the initial referral to the final resolution. 

       Assist with recruiting and hiring members of the legal team.

       Participate in developing office-wide policies and strategies that are consistent with applicable laws.

       Provide testimony before the Montana Legislature as necessary.

       Perform a variety of other legal and managerial duties in support of the CSI's mission and program objectives.  This includes representing the agency at meetings and conferences; coordinating projects and initiatives with other state, federal, and tribal agencies; responding to written and telephonic requests for public information; and responding to inquiries from regulated entities, interest groups, and the public to provide information and maintain public awareness of CSI programs and activities.  

Why Join CSI

• Meaningful, Purpose-Driven Work:  Help protect Montanans by enforcing Montana's insurance and securities laws.  This includes a special focus on protecting elderly and vulnerable individuals who are the victims of fraud.

     Work Life Balance:  Up to 38 paid days off a year, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.  Generous maternity and parental leave.  Hybrid or partial telework work arrangements may be possible.

     Outstanding State of Montana Benefits:  Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family starting on your first day of employment.  Access to telehealth and comprehensive services at the employee health clinics at no additional out-of-pocket cost through our medical plan.  Additional details are available HERE. 

       Retirement Security:  Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary.  A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.  Additional details are available HERE.

       Loan Forgiveness:  Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

       Positive Culture:  CSI is a small, family-friendly state agency.   Our success comes from building effective working relationships based on mutual trust and respect for each other's skills and abilities.  We will encourage you to excel both in your individual competencies and as a team player.  To learn more, visit our "Work with Us" page HERE. 

       Beautiful Helena, Montana:  As the capital of Montana, Helena is a vibrant community.  Outside of work, you will have access to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, biking, skiing, boating, hiking, golfing, etc.  Helena is also a cultural center with historical sites, art galleries, live theater, natural hot springs, restaurants, local microbreweries, live concerts, and a well-maintained trail system.  Learn more about moving to and living in Helena, Montana HERE. 
 

Minimum Qualifications

         A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

         Membership in good standing in the State Bar of Montana, or the ability to become a member by an agreed-upon data.  Individuals with five (5) years of practice in another state may be able to apply for admission to the Montana Bar "on motion."  Details are available HERE.

         Ten years of experience with progressively more difficult legal work.

         Experience as lead counsel at trial in complex civil or criminal matters.

         Three or more years of relevant managerial experience, preferably in the public sector.

Preferred Qualifications

         Three or more years of experience with insurance or securities law.

         Practical experience as a licensed insurance or securities professional.

         Exceptional legal research and writing skills.

Work Environment and Requirements

         This position is a supervisory position.  This position is exempt under the FLSA.

         Special requirements include successful completion of a fingerprint background check and possession of a valid driver's license.

How to Apply                                                                                                                                                                         

Please submit the following:

         A cover letter describing your experience in the insurance and/or legal industry.

         Resume detailing specific work experience.

         A writing sample demonstrating your legal writing ability and style.

         A law school transcript (unofficial is acceptable).

When uploading and submitting your application materials, please make sure to mark your attachments as "relevant," or we will be unable to view them. 

CSI will invite a limited number of applicants to a minimum of one structured interview.  Selectees are subject to a successful reference, background, and fingerprint check.  Those selected for an interview may be asked to take a performance test prior to the interview.

Successful applicants will be subject to a criminal history background check.

Applicants claiming employment preference are required to provide proper documentation, i.e. Vet Preference (DD214), Disabled Vet document from U.S. Veterans Administration certifying service-connected disability or purple heart medal, disabled (DPHHS Disability Certification), by the closing date. Please submit preference documentation to Michelle Flynn at Michelle.Flynn@mt.gov via File Transfer Service.