OAG - Open Records | Research Specialist III | 24-0539 | REVISED 08 / 23 / 2025

OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERALAustin, Texas

job_description.job_card.variable_days_ago

serp_jobs.job_preview.job_type

serp_jobs.job_card.full_time

job_description.job_card.job_description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

This position is intended for attorneys or individuals who have recently taken the Texas state bar exam and are awaiting results. The selected applicant will receive extensive, hands-on training in administrative law and legal research and writing for the Office of the Attorney General’s Open Records Division. Works directly with a senior attorney to gain experience in interpreting and applying the Public Information Act. Work involves researching and interpreting laws governing public access to government information; reviewing and analyzing requests for rulings; and drafting legal opinions, including informal open records letter rulings, involving requests for public information; educating citizens and public servants regarding their rights and obligations under the Public Information Act; participating in public speaking at open government conferences; assisting in drafting bills for legislative consideration and analyzing proposed legislation. Upon successful completion of one year, this position is eligible for promotion to an Assistant Attorney General I and a retention bonus contract.

The OAG is a dynamic state agency with over 4,000 employees throughout the State of Texas. As the State’s law firm, the OAG provides exemplary legal representation in diverse areas of law. OAG employees enjoy excellent benefits ( along with tremendous opportunities to do important work at a large, dynamic state agency making a positive difference in the lives of Texans..

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS

Research, draft, edit and revise informal opinions and rulings, memoranda, correspondence, and publications
Performs related work as assigned
Maintains relevant knowledge necessary to perform essential job functions
Attends work regularly in compliance with agreed-upon work schedule
Ensures security and confidentiality of sensitive and / or protected information
Complies with all agency policies and procedures, including those pertaining to ethics and integrity

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education : Graduation from an accredited law school with a J.D.

Taken the Texas state bar exam

Knowledge of laws and legal principles and practices

Skill in using a computer for word-processing and data entry / retrieval

Skill in effective oral and written communication (Writing sample required at time of interview, if selected)

Skill in working cooperatively with attorneys, supervisors, and support staff

Ability to handle stressful situations

Ability to work with others in a professional office environment

Ability to receive and respond positively to constructive feedback

Ability to provide excellent customer service

Ability to work more than 40 hours as needed and in compliance with the FLSA

Ability to arrange for personal transportation for business-related travel

Ability to lift and relocate 30 lbs.

Skill in handling multiple tasks, prioritizing, and meeting deadlines

Skill in exercising sound judgment and effective decision making

Ability to work in person at assigned OAG work location, perform all assigned tasks at designated OAG work space within OAG work location, and perform in-person work with coworkers (e.g., collaborating, training, mentoring) for the entirety of every work week (unless on approved leave)

Ability to lift and relocate 30 lbs.

Ability to travel (including overnight travel) up to 5%

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Licensed as an attorney by the State of Texas

Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas

Experience in interpreting and applying the Public Information Act

Experience in administrative law

Experience in peer review environment

Other Language : Ability to proficiently read, write, and speak Spanish

serp_jobs.job_alerts.create_a_job

Research Specialist Iii • Austin, Texas