Working Title: Contracts Attorney Job Class: Staff Attorney 1 Agency: Children Youth & Families Dept

- Job ID: 96010
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: Yes*
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers. This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 08/01/2026 date. Please note that to be considered a bidder, you must be a permanent, non-probationary DCYF employee in the same job classification as the position posted.
- Date Posted: 08/01/2026
- Closing Date: 08/14/2026
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: DCYF / MAPE
- Division/Unit: DCYF / DCYF Grants & Contracts
- Work Shift: Day Shift
- Work Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30PM
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: No*
- Salary Range: $35.30 - $52.35 / hourly; $73,706 - $109,306 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
- FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DCYF does not participate in E-Verify. The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

- Telework (Within Minnesota or neighboring states) neighboring state must be a minimum of 50 miles from the St. Paul DCYF office.

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is seeking a Contracts Attorney. This position will provide professional legal expertise and services relating to contract development, review and performance in assigned subject areas and issues at the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Staff Attorney 1 Counsels Contracts/grants Staff And Manages Issues Related To Contract Law, Regulations, Policies, And Procedures. Core Functions Include, But Are Not Limited To
- Drafting, reviewing and approving contracts as to form, enforceability and execution;
- Counseling on contract specific issues, such as intellectual property, indemnification, insurance, and other contract issues;
- Advising on complex competitive solicitation issues to be compliant with state and federal requirements; negotiating contract legal issues with outside counsel; developing and implementing training to staff and managers as requested
- Facilitating and enhancing DCYF compliance with the statutory and policy requirements, such as retainage requirements, diversity and inclusionary goals, and ethical obligations.
- To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month, day and year for each job held.**

Minimum Qualifications

- JD degree from an ABA accredited law school;
- Current license and in good standing to practice law in the State of Minnesota; and
- At least 1 year experience as a practicing attorney in,



or related to contract law; and
- Demonstrates knowledge and experience conducting legal research, writing and analysis; and providing legal advice.

Applicants who meet the above experience requirements will be further evaluated based on the following during the interview process: Preferred Qualifications

- Experience providing legal counsel related to government contracts, grants, procurement, or compliance.
- Experience interpreting state and federal laws, regulations, and policies affecting public sector contracting.
- Experience with contract negotiations, data privacy requirements, intellectual property issues, tribal nation contracting, or regulatory compliance.
- Experience developing legal training or guidance materials.
- Experience working in a health and human services, government, or other highly regulated environment.
- Experience with electronic contracts management systems.

Additional Requirements It is the policy of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families that the individual selected for this position successfully complete a background investigation prior to employment, that may include the following components:

- Reference check
- Criminal Background check
- Fingerprinting check (MNJIS/CJIS)
- Driver’s License Check
- Personnel File Review: all current and former public sector employees
- Additional assessment may be required during the interview process

How To Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at (phone hidden) or email [email protected]. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about the position, contact Luis Hernandez-Cuate at [email protected].

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Luis Hernandez-Cuate at [email protected].

If you are an individual with a disability and need an ADA accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Children, Youth and Families ADA Coordinator at (phone hidden) or DCYF ADA at [email protected].

About Children Youth & Families Dept Our state depends on the success of Minnesota children, youth and families. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families puts children at the center of state government, creating a permanent state agency and commissioner focused on elevating children and families in policy and budget decisions.

This realigns state government to advance equitable outcomes for children, youth, and families through transformative, partnership-driven policies, programs and practices.

Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth





Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your Benefits May Include

- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF

- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals

- Training, classes, and professional development
- Tuition reimbursement
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support

- A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and advantages eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply.

The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at (phone hidden) or email [email protected] and let us know the support you need.

📌 Contracts Attorney / Staff Attorney 1 (Saint Paul)
🏢 Minnesota Direct Care and Treatment
📍 Saint Paul