Senior Paralegal

.

MaineDOT is seeking an experienced Senior Paralegal to join its Office of Legal Services. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a wide range of legal work supporting transportation projects and infrastructure across the State of Maine.  MaineDOT’s mission is to support economic opportunity and quality of life for Maine people and businesses by responsibly providing the safest and most reliable transportation system possible, given available resources. The Office of Legal Services plays a key role in that mission by helping the Department navigate legal requirements while advancing practical, business-focused solutions.

This position is well-suited for a paralegal with a strong foundation in drafting and developing legal documents, particularly contracts and other transactional instruments.  The Senior Paralegal contributes to a collaborative legal team, working closely with attorneys and legal staff to develop, review, and revise a wide variety of legal instruments and processes central to MaineDOT’s operations.  The work involves more than proofreading or making routine changes to existing documents.  The successful candidate will be expected to interpret project requirements, identify information needed to prepare effective legal documents, and develop or adapt contractual language to address the particular circumstances of each assignment.  This may involve working from established templates or creating documents that require more substantial drafting and development. 

This role is a professional growth position where the successful candidate will build subject-matter knowledge of MaineDOT’s programs over time.  Success in this role requires the ability to work within an established legal framework, take direction, and refine work product through feedback and collaboration.  Work is performed under the guidance of experienced legal staff, with increasing independence as familiarity and proficiency develop.

Responsibilities may include:

• →
  • →Drafting, reviewing, and developing a variety of legal documents, such as multi-party contracts and licenses; cost-sharing and interagency agreements; leases, deeds, and other real estate-related instruments; and environmental covenants and restrictions
  • →Translating business and project needs into clear, well-structured contractual provisions and legal documents aligning with project goals and applicable legal requirements in collaboration with attorneys and program staff
  • →Conducting legal and regulatory research, including analysis of federal and Maine statutes, regulations, and guidance applicable to transportation projects
  • →Supporting compliance with federal and state requirements by identifying applicable provisions and incorporating appropriate terms and conditions into agreements and related documents
  • →Supporting the Department’s administrative rulemaking process, including document preparation, coordination, and tracking
  • →Assisting with responses to Freedom of Access Act (FOAA) requests, including document collection, organization, and review

We are seeking a candidate who:

• • Has demonstrated experience drafting substantive legal documents and is confident in their technical skills; a real estate or property-related legal background is preferred
  • Can interpret factual and business requirements, recognize when additional information is needed, and translate those requirements into clear, logically organized legal documents
  • Is comfortable working in a structured, team-oriented legal environment where collaboration and review are integral to the process
  • Demonstrates sound judgment, attention to detail, and a practical approach to legal work
  • Has experience researching and applying federal and state laws and regulatory requirements, or the ability to develop that expertise
  • Communicates clearly and professionally, both in writing and in person
  • Can manage multiple assignments while maintaining accuracy in a deadline-driven environment
  • Is interested in developing subject-matter knowledge in contracts, property, and administrative law in the context of MaineDOT’s operations

A Bachelor’s Degree and at least three (3) years of paralegal experience in a law firm, court, or legal services department – OR - an equivalent combination of education and/or experience

Applicants may be asked to provide a brief writing sample demonstrating experience with legal drafting or document review.

Interested applicants need to apply online by clicking the "Apply for this Opening/Apply Now" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and any applicable copies of post-secondary transcripts, licensing, registration and certifications. 

*If you require a paper application or for general questions, please contact MaineDOT Human Resources at 207-624-3050 or via email at jobs.DOT@maine.gov