Job Description

ASSOCIATE COUNSEL

LOCATION: Washington, DC

ORGANIZATION: Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA)

POSITION TITLE : Associate Counsel

DURATION: Full Time

SALARY : $90,000-$100,000

OVERVIEW:

The Organization. The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the those in the business of information. Our members include over 400 firms involved in academic publishing, education technology, and financial information, along with creators of software and platforms used by millions all over the world.

Function.  SIIA seeks an Associate Counsel who will play an essential role in supporting SIIA’s policy functions. The Associate Counsel will be reporting to the SIIA President and the Senior VP of Global Public Policy. This entry-level role is designed to give early-career legal professionals an opportunity to blend practical counseling with policy advocacy. The Associate Counsel will focus on three main areas: monitoring and advocating on patents and copyright issues; coordinating the association’s amicus filing program; and supporting internal clients on matters related to transactions and other general legal work. This is a growth position. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Patent and Copyright Monitoring and Advocacy

• Track relevant legal and regulatory developments in intellectual property law, with an emphasis on patent, copyright and name image and likeness. Draft talking points, comments, statements, and Congressional testimony as needed.
• Support the development and communication of the association’s positions on intellectual property issues.
• Participate in meetings, webinars, and forums to monitor trends, gather insights, and provide updates to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the policy team to engage with lawmakers, regulators, and other stakeholders to advance the association’s policy priorities over time.

2. Amicus Coordination

• Coordinate the association’s amicus curiae filing program, providing administrative and substantive support to develop and submit briefs in appellate cases, focusing on the Supreme Court docket.
• Track ongoing and upcoming cases that may impact the information industry and assess potential involvement.
• Work closely with the President, the SVP of Public Policy, and external counsel to draft, review, and submit briefs that align with the association’s strategic priorities.

3. Legal Support

• Collaborate with outside counsel to provide advice on transactional matters and other general legal work as needed, gaining exposure to contracts, agreements, and compliance.
• Provide research, drafting, and administrative support on legal issues affecting the association and its members.
• Develop familiarity with the operational and legal challenges facing SIIA, contributing to legal strategy and planning.

Minimum Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and admission to at least one state bar.
• Strong interest in intellectual property law, particularly as it relates to patents and copyright in the information industry. A science degree is not required, but a patent course is preferred.
• Hill experience is welcome but not required.
• Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing skills. Legal journal experience is a plus.
• Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail, with an ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary & Growth Potential
• Paid Annual & Sick Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Health/Vision/Dental Coverage
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Hybrid work policy
• Representing the world’s most dynamic industries

What We Love About You:

• You are thoughtful, energetic, innovative, results-oriented and a resourceful self-starter.
• You have a tenacious work ethic, dedicated to exceeding expectations.
• You have a “customer first” mindset and are obsessive about building and maximizing value for our members.
• You are collaborative and accountable, and committed to integrity.
• You embrace the diverse perspectives of all people and honor them with dignity and respect.
• You find time to laugh and strive to “make people’s day” in all your interactions.

Application Instructions:

Please submit a resume, transcript, cover letter, and a brief writing sample that is entirely your own work to [email protected] with “Associate Counsel” in the subject line.

SIIA believes a diversity of voices leads to better outcomes for our members, our employees, our products and our communities. We are proudly committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, political persuasion or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

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