Reference #: REQ_0000072598
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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Pennsylvania State University (the "University") is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Real Estate Transactional Attorney to join its Office of General Counsel. This attorney will provide legal support on a wide range of real estate matters, including acquisitions, sales, leasing, development, financing, taxation, litigation, construction, zoning and land use. This role requires strong transactional experience in real estate, with the ability to draft and negotiate real estate agreements and to work collaboratively with university departments, leadership, and other stakeholders with a practical, solutions-oriented approach to complex legal and business issues.
Key Responsibilities
Primary Legal Advisor on Real Estate Matters: Act as the primary legal advisor on all real estate matters for various departments of the University, including serving as the primary legal advisor on real estate legal matters relating to the University's Commonwealth Campus Closure project
Real Estate Transaction Agreements: Draft, review, and negotiate agreements and instruments required for real estate transactions of the University, including purchase and sale agreements, ground leases, commercial leases, easements, rights-of-ways, facility use agreements, and cellular tower license agreements
Leasing: Draft, review and negotiate residential leases, ground leases, and commercial leases for office space, restaurant leases, research facilities, and retail tenants
Due Diligence Review: Oversee title, survey, zoning, environmental, and other due diligence processes, working with other transactional attorneys of the University; coordinate with external counsel and consultants as needed
Land Use and Zoning; Construction: Advise on land use and zoning matters, as well as construction related matters, including assistance with securing necessary permits and approvals for new construction and development projects
Litigation and Disputes: Assist in managing any litigation or disputes related to real estate matters, working with litigation counsel as needed
Property Management: Assist the University's Real Estate Services Office (URES) with all legal matters relating to the management of the University's real estate property holdings and lease portfolio
Outside Counsel Oversight: Manage and coordinate work performed by outside real estate counsel to ensure cost-effective, high-quality service
Policy and Compliance: Assist with the development of real estate policies and procedures to ensure institutional compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks in proposed real estate transactions while aligning with the University's mission and long-term goals
General Legal Support: Assist with other transactional and contractual matters of the University such as the review and negotiation of vendor contracts, construction agreements, software agreements, and other university contracts
Qualifications
Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
License: Admission to practice law and good standing with a U.S. state bar
Experience: Experience practicingreal estate law, with a focus on commercial real estate transactions
Skills:
Strong agreement drafting and negotiation skills
Knowledge of real estate transactions, including leasing, acquisitions and sales, taxation, land use, zoning, and real estate financing structures
Ability to manage multiple complex matters simultaneously
Excellent judgment, communication, and interpersonal skills
Commitment to collegiality, collaboration, and advancing the University's mission
Preferred Qualifications
Experience practicing real estate law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with knowledge of local and state real estate rules and practices
Experience with real estate matters involving tax-exempt organizations and/or higher education institutions
Familiarity with public-private partnerships and tax-exempt financing
The location of this position is flexible and can operate fully remote within the United States (restrictions may apply), fully in-person at our University Park Campus, or in a hybrid model of both in-person and remote (restrictions may apply). Standard working hours are in the eastern time zone. The Office of General Counsel is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position.Questions related to flexible work hours should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSJuris Doctor (JD)
6+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
Licensed Attorney - Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCESEmployment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITSThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $163,000.00 - $252,700.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging
