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

Overview

The Washington State Attorney General's Office (AGO), Tacoma Division, has an immediate opening for a Section Chief (MAAG2) in the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Section. The Section Chief supervises staff and performs management duties including hiring, providing feedback, evaluating employees, assigning cases, tracking caseloads, meeting deadlines, addressing performance issues, implementing performance plans, overseeing administrative tasks, and coordinating with the Tacoma Division Chief.

The position requires legal competency, strong organizational and time management skills, delegation ability, sound judgment, flexibility, open communication, and respect for diverse experiences and professional growth. The Section Chief represents the office in the local community and interacts with a wide array of court partners, maintaining professional and ethical conduct aligned with AGO mission and values.

The AAGs in this section work in a fast-paced litigation practice, 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 contested adoptions, family law matters, and public disclosure/confidentiality issues. The position advises and represents DCYF in court proceedings and through appeal, requiring familiarity with applicable rules, statutes, and procedures.

The Section Chief may engage in juvenile litigation as part of active practice and is expected to contribute to the management and leadership of the DCYF section.

Key duties include:

• supervise 4 Team Leaders (MAAG1s) and participate in management discussions
• oversee hiring, performance feedback, and staff development
• manage caseloads and ensure timely completion of critical events
• coordinate with the Tacoma Division Chief and other leaders
• ensure professional conduct and ethical standards in all interactions

Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and be licensed to practice law in Washington state. Applicants who meet other qualifications and are actively pursuing admission by motion will also be considered. Experience in high-volume litigation and the ability to quickly learn new areas of law are valued.

Some juvenile litigation experience is expected as part of the active practice. The role requires familiarity with applicable rules and procedures and the ability to manage a public service-focused legal practice.

This Managing Assistant Attorney General 2 position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. MAAG2 salaries are set between $90,444 and $169,392, with the exact amount determined under Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package is offered, including medical and dental plans, retirement, life and disability insurance, and a supportive work environment that values professional development and work-life balance.

The AGO maintains commitments to environmental stewardship and inclusive practices.

Interested applicants must apply by using the application button. In addition to the online application, upload PDFs including:

• A letter of interest;
• Resume;
• Law school transcript (unofficial copy acceptable) showing date degree conferred;
• A writing sample (10 pages or less).

If you have questions about this position, contact Division Chief Laura Wulf f.gov or .

The Washington State Office of the Attorney General does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM OPT. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means the AGO is committed to a respectful, safe and supportive working environment for all employees and volunteers. The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, veteran or military status, disability, or the use of a service animal.

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 are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at or