Temporary First Year Attorney

This position is eligible for telework, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Opening:

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is North America's largest transportation network, serving a population of 15.3 million people across a 5,000-square-mile travel area surrounding New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. The MTA network comprises the nation’s largest bus fleet and more subway and commuter rail cars than all other U.S. transit systems combined. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities.

Job Summary:

This position is responsible for supporting outside counsel and in-house attorneys handling a high volume of personal injury and property damage claims and lawsuits brought in state and federal courts against MTA agencies. The successful candidate will have demonstrated interest in tort litigation and will work independently and collaboratively with senior management to carry out litigation strategies designed to reduce tort exposure.

Responsibilities:

• Handle personal injury and/or property damage claims during all phases of litigation, including hearings, depositions, discovery, substantive and procedural motion practice, court conferences, settlement negotiations, and trials.
• Conduct legal research; draft pleadings, discovery responses, motions, memoranda, and internal reports; handle court appearances including status and settlement conferences, oral arguments, trials; attend mediations.
• Assist in assessing liability and damages exposures and make and review appropriate reserve and settlement recommendations.
• Assist in the business goals of the MTA Legal Dept. in whatever manner as required by the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel Torts.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to handle varied tasks and to function independently and collaboratively as part of a litigation team, under pressure and tight time constraints imposed internally or by the Courts.
• Proven ability to work independently and prioritize deadlines in a fast-paced, high-volume work environment.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Demonstrated proficiency in conducting internet searches and other computer resources, including Microsoft Office Suite Word and Outlook.

Required Education and Experience:

• Graduated from an ABA accredited law school (or expected graduation by time of start date).
• Admission to the New York State Bar.

Other Information

May need to work outside of normal work hours (i.e., evenings and weekends)

Travel may be required to other MTA locations or other external sites.

According to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.