Job Summary:
Provide counsel to the University in focus areas to include but not limited to: athletic matters, trademarks (all), primary complex contract drafting and review, litigation (non-labor/employment), research contract and intellectual property matters, The University of Akron Foundation matters and general and capital planning bids. Evaluates all aspects of real property matters to provide suitable advice and counsel.
Essential Functions:
Assist in developing the University's response to new federal legislation in achieving compliance with its long-standing privacy policies and procedures.
Report to the VP and General Counsel and provide advice and counsel with respect to athletic matters, trademarks (all), primary complex contract drafting and review, litigation (non-labor/employment), property transactions, research contract and intellectual property matters, The University of Akron Foundation matters, general and capital planning bids, and other such matters as directed by the VP and General Counsel.
Negotiate, draft, review, edit and approve University contracts and agreements. Assist with the operation of contract administration and procedures.
Education:
Requires a Law Degree.
Licenses/Certifications/Requirements:
License to practice law in the state of Ohio.
Experience:
Requires a minimum of 6 years’ experience practicing law and administering significant higher education law matters. Candidate should possess legal expertise in athletic matters, trademarks, complex contract drafting and review, litigation (non-labor/employment), property transactions, research contract and intellectual property matters, and general and capital planning bids. Strong communication, analytical and research skills required. Ability to organize time and tasks to effectively manage a heavy workload, flexibility and a collegial disposition are required. Ability to conduct legal research, communication and perform related tasks via computer and technology required. Ability to practice law by the Supreme Court of Ohio required. Previous work in public higher education or other relevant public employment is preferred.
Leadership: No authority or responsibility for the supervision of others.
Physical Requirements: Job is physically comfortable; individual is normally seated and has discretion about walking, standing, etc. May occasionally lift very lightweight objects.
Working Conditions: No major sources of working conditions discomfort, standard working environment with possible minor inconveniences due to occasional noise, crowded working conditions, minor heating/cooling or ventilation problems, and/or up to 40% use of PC terminal.
Application Instructions: In order to be considered for this position, please complete the online application, attach your resume, and include three references.
Application Deadline: Review of applicants will begin on October 1, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.
Compensation: The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience.
FLSA Status (exempt/nonexempt):
Union Affiliation (if applicable):
For assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:
Cindy HarmEmail:
________________________________________________________________________
Background Check StatementThe University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.
Non-Discrimination StatementThe University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.
State of Residence StatementIt is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.
Skills Required
- Law degree
- License to practice law in the state of Ohio
- At least six years of experience practicing law
- Experience administering significant higher education law matters
- Legal expertise in athletic matters, trademarks, complex contracts, non-labor/employment litigation, property transactions, research contracts, intellectual property, and public bids
- Ability to practice law by the Supreme Court of Ohio
- Strong communication, analytical, legal research, and organizational skills
- Ability to perform legal and communication tasks using computers and technology
- Previous work in public higher education or other relevant public employment
- Three professional references
What We Do
The University of Akron is a public research university in Ohio that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, with a strong focus on STEM fields and polymer research.
