Section Chief; MAAG- Tacoma Division's Social & Health Services Section

Description

Accommodation and contact information: Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team . Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at or

About the Office: The Washington State Attorney General's Office (AGO) serves to protect the state, its people and resources. The AGO is composed of diverse, collegial and skilled legal professionals committed to public service. For more information about the AGO, review the Office's Annual Report linked here.

Benefits
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The AGO emphasizes work-life balance and a respectful, inclusive and diverse workplace. The following benefits are highlighted: competitive medical and dental plans, retirement plans, paid leave and holidays, flexible schedules and telecommuting options, mentoring, health and wellness programs, and opportunities for training and career development.

Position location
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Washington State Attorney General's Office, Tacoma Division, has an immediate opening for a Section Chief (MAAG2) in the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Section.

Section Chief responsibilities: Direct supervision of 4 Team Leaders (MAAG1s); member of the Tacoma Management Team. Manage hiring, feedback and evaluations, case assignment, caseload tracking, deadlines, performance issues, policy implementation, and coordination with the Tacoma Division Chief. Conduct monthly staff meetings and weekly meetings with the Division Chief, LNI Section Chief, and AOM. Demonstrate legal competency, organization, time management, delegation, decision‑making, flexibility, open communication, good judgment and respect for diverse experiences.

Serve as the office representative in the local community and interact with court partners in a professional and ethical manner aligned with AGO mission and values.

Practice context: AAGs in this section work in a fast-paced litigation setting, handling state court docket and trial appearances and administrative hearings. The office represents DCYF in juvenile court and licensing matters in Pierce and Kitsap counties, with potential involvement in adoptions under RCW Chapter 26.33, family law under Title 26, and public disclosure/confidentiality issues. The position advises and represents DCYF in court proceedings and on appeal, requiring familiarity with applicable rules and procedures.

Required/considered: In addition to meeting the requirements to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, candidates with experience in high‑volume litigation and the ability to quickly learn new areas of law will be considered. Handling some juvenile litigation as part of the Section Chief’s active practice should be expected. Juvenile litigation involves issues related to the physical and mental health and safety of children in dependency, guardianship and termination actions under RCW Title 13.

The attorneys advise and represent DCYF in litigation and on appeal, requiring familiarity with applicable rules and procedures.

Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and be licensed to practice law in Washington state. Applicants who meet the other qualifications and are actively pursuing admission by motion will also be considered. The AGO seeks applicants committed to public service and values diversity to create an inclusive environment that strengthens relationships with the local community and supports the mission of providing ethical legal services to the State of Washington.

Representation and compensation: This MAAG2 position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / WFSE AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. Salaries are set between $90,444 and $169,392, with exact amounts determined per Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package is offered, including medical/dental plans, retirement, life, and basic long-term disability insurance. The AGO emphasizes professional development and work‑life balance…