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

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

Job ID: 96010

Location: St. Paul

Telework Eligible: Yes*

Full/Part Time: Full time

Regular/Temporary: Unlimited

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

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

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 benefits 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.

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].

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