Washington State Council of County and City Employees
WSCCCE/AFSCME Council 2

General Counsel

Based in Everett, WA

 

WSCCCE Council 2 is a progressive statewide public-sector union in Washington State, representing over 17,000 blue-collar, white-collar, professional, law enforcement, correctional staff, and supervisory workers in over 200 bargaining units. We are committed to building the Union through organizing, representation, and political/community action.

WSCCCE Council 2 is currently recruiting for the position of General Counsel to work out of our Everett, Washington, Office.

General Counsel

Job Summary:
The General Counsel (GC) acts as the primary legal advisor for the organization. GC works closely with the President/Executive Director providing legal advice related to all areas of the organization, and provides written updates regarding legal matters to the Executive Board prior to their meetings. Responsible for researching and advising various legal issues for union field staff and administration. Assist staff upon request with early stages of the grievance process, potential settlements, and contract or other negotiations. In consultation with the President/Executive Director, GC determines what cases to litigate. Prepares, presents, and litigates arbitration cases, including but not limited to contested grievance arbitrations, interest arbitrations, unfair labor practices, and unit clarification hearings. Provide draft language for proposed legislation or other technical support for legislative matters. Addresses legal issues arising under state or federal law which may require responding to legal processes or filing cases in court. The organization hires outside counsel for court litigation and a variety of other matters. GC hires, directs, coordinates, and is the main point of contact for outside attorneys handling legal proceedings and issues affecting the organization. Acts as a liaison with other legal labor partners. Provides advice and assistance on internal AFSCME governance, discipline, or other issues.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Legal research and provide advice to field staff and administration.
• Evaluates grievances and legal issues to determine the advisability of defending or prosecuting a grievance/ lawsuit.
• Provides legal assistance on issues arising out of internal union matters.
• Prepare, research, and present arbitrations and PERC cases.
• Prepare legal briefs and memoranda related to arbitrations or court cases, including amicus briefs filed in support of other unions.
• Monitor decisions that affect labor unions and advise the administration on response.
• Provide guidance for staff on general legal principles.
• Participate in union lawyer organizations, attend related conferences and training, and attend various union conventions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Ability to provide timely and practical legal advice 
• Strong organizational skills to meet all deadlines and ensure quality representation
• Ability to prioritize to ensure all necessary tasks are accomplished
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Strong writing and communication skills.
• Knowledge of electronic legal research tools such as Casetext or Westlaw.
• Knowledge of labor unions and labor law.
• Ability to prepare legal briefs, develop strategy and arguments, and prepare for presentation.
• Ability to represent clients in court, arbitration hearings, or other administrative proceedings.
• Ability to verify the legal basis for legal proceedings.
• Ability to interpret laws, rulings, and regulations affecting labor unions.
• Understanding of political, legislative, public policy, & communications components of the position.

Education and Experience:

• Graduation from an accredited law school with relevant legal experience.
• Licenses to practice in the State of WA.
• Manage diverse tasks effectively while working to address the needs of a wide variety of audiences ethically.
• A thorough understanding of public sector unions and labor law.
• Experience and familiarity with the Washington Public Employment Relations Commission procedures
• Public speaking and presentation skills.

Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; type on a keyboard for extended periods; talk, and hear. In addition, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. In addition, the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds

Working Conditions
This position will be assigned out of our Everett office location. Travel and extended work hours will occasionally be required, including evenings and weekends. This position requires a valid driver’s license, insurability, and an automobile.

Compensation
This position offers a positive working atmosphere, a competitive starting base salary dependent on experience, plus a robust package of additional benefits, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, sick leave, vacation time, and retirement plan (employer and employee contributions are a percentage of your salary). Law license fees and training expenses for CLE’s for licensure are also covered.

Salary: $166,860 – $182,384 based on experience

To be Considered:
Send a letter of interest, résumé, and two writing samples by email to: barc@council2.com.

Posting Date: 03/22/2026

WSCCCE Council 2 is an equal opportunity employer and, as such, does not discriminate against an employee or applicant on the basis of race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification protected from discrimination under applicable law.