Higher Education Law Fellow

Job Summary:

This position is a one-year appointment, with the opportunity for an additional year depending on performance and funding renewal for a recent law school graduate or early career attorney with an interest in the field of higher education law. This position will report directly to the General Counsel. The appointment will begin in May of 2026 or when the position is filled. No prior legal experience is required.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Conducts legal research, analysis, and writing for various issues.
2. Assists the General Counsel in providing information and guidance to client representatives on a wide range of issues relating to the practice of law in a higher education setting (e.g. academic and student affairs matters, business and real estate matters, employment law, intellectual property, regulatory compliance, philanthropy, and tax matters.)
3. Assists the General Counsel in researching and drafting institutional policies.
4. Assists with contract review.
5. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• J.D. and admission (or pending application) to the Texas or other state bar is required.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• None

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of Texas and federal law.
• Strong legal research skills.
• Skill in Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Skill in communication, interpersonal, drafting, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Skill in both verbal and written communication.
• Skill in remaining organized and ability to follow-up.
• Ability to exercise proper judgment to assess priorities.
• Ability to work independently, be resourceful, proactive, assertive, detail-oriented, and energetic.
• Ability to adapt to changing responsibilities and multiple assignments.
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively to client concerns, questions, and issues.
• Ability to perform with integrity and discretion.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects and tasks.
• Ability to work with a large and diverse team of many different backgrounds.
• Ability to work well under pressure and with tight time constraints.
• Ability to make effective decisions and solve problems.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.