Southern Methodist University (SMU) is seeking an Associate University Counsel to join the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA). This is a full-time, in person position. OLA is responsible for provision of all legal services to the SMU Board of Trustees, officers, administrative officials and authorized representatives of institutional interests for legal matters involving SMU. OLA is a fast-paced, high-volume environment. OLA supports the mission and goals of SMU by providing practical, ethical and high quality legal advice in a timely and professional manner. Reporting to the Vice President for Legal Affairs and General Counsel, the Associate University Counsel is responsible for providing legal advice on a broad range of subjects with a concentration on University research related contracts and grant agreements, research compliance, technology transfer and intellectual property. The Associate University Counsel will also provide legal support on commercial transactions and business operations, real estate matters, regulatory compliance matters and other duties as assigned. The Associate University Counsel will assist in drafting or reviewing policies and procedures and in developing training and educational training programs for administrators, faculty, and staff. The successful candidate will be expected to exercise sound judgment and work collaboratively and collegially with other members of OLA and SMU colleagues.
Essential Functions:
Qualifications:
Education and Experience: A J.D. from an ABA accredited law school and a minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible legal experience as a practicing attorney is required. (Judicial clerkships will count as practice years.) A member in good standing of the Texas Bar or eligible to practice law in the State of Texas within one year or less is also required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: This position requires strong skills as a corporate and transactional attorney, including significant experience with contract drafting, negotiating, and an understanding of IP and research related issues. The ideal candidate will have the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. The candidate should also have a commitment to client service and teamwork. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail is a must. Demonstrated experience in providing legal advice to a college or university, with significant knowledge of applicable state and federal laws and regulations is desired. Proven record of ability to undertake complex legal issues and capacity to negotiate creative solutions.
Physical and Environmental Demands: Sit for long periods of time
Deadline to Apply: SMU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, license, and certifications. Applicants should submit a cover letter, current resume and a list of three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by May 11, 2026.
EEO Statement: SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Assistant Vice President for Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, equalopportunity@smu.edu.
Benefits: SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of health and related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMU and, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. The value of learning at SMU isn't just about preparing our students for the future. Employees have access to a wide variety of professional and personal development opportunities, including tuition benefits.