About the role: Reporting to the Managing Principal Solicitor within the Commercial Legal Advisory Team in the Legal Services and Integrity Branch, the Solicitor role will provide timely legal advice and prepare high quality contracts and other legal documents. The Commercial Legal Advisory team works closely with internal stakeholders to manage risk and issues that arise in the health space and is instrumental in assisting stakeholders navigate and resolve a wide variety of complex commercial legal matters. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with senior lawyers in the Commercial Legal Advisory team and to develop a broad set of commercial advisory skills. You will be required to draft and review a variety of contracts and other legal documents including bespoke procurement agreements, funding agreements, service agreements, IP agreements, IT agreements, licence agreements, grant agreements, loan agreements, research agreements, agreement variations, deeds of novation and other terms and conditions (including bespoke contracts). You will be required to provide legal advice to internal stakeholders within the department on a broad variety of commercial and corporate issues that arise in the health space. You will also be required to manage pre-litigation disputes (such as IT disputes) and oversee employment matters. This role will also support the preparation of Ministerial correspondence, Cabinet submissions and other written reports and briefings to clients. Your advice must be clear, accurate and proactive in managing risks. Please view position description for further information about the role. About us: At the Victorian Department of Health we want a future where Victorians are the healthiest people in the world. A Victoria where our children and people thrive, our workplaces are productive and safe, and our communities are more connected. We see it as our job to support Victorians to stay healthy and safe. And to deliver a world-class healthcare system that ensures every single Victorian can access safe, quality care that leads to better health outcomes for all. About you: The Department of Health is seeking a motivated and capable Solicitor to join its Commercial Legal Advisory team. This role provides high-quality legal advice and support across a broad range of commercial and contractual matters that underpin the delivery of vital public health services. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong legal drafting skills, with the ability to draft, review and negotiate a wide variety of contracts and legal documentation. You will provide timely, practical and risk-aware advice while managing competing priorities in a dynamic environment. Excellent written communication skills are essential, including the ability to prepare clear, concise and well-structured briefs, correspondence, reports and emails that meet organisational standards and achieve their intended purpose. You will work closely with internal clients and external stakeholders, requiring highly developed communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. The role demands the ability to explain and negotiate sensitive legal issues constructively, adapt messaging to suit different audiences, and respond effectively to objections while maintaining positive working relationships. Sound influence and negotiation skills will enable you to achieve outcomes that align legal advice with broader organisational objectives. A strong understanding of organisational awareness is critical. You will appreciate the Department's responsibilities, legal obligations and decision-making processes, and actively seek to understand the priorities and perspectives of diverse stakeholders. The role also requires effective self-management, including the ability to plan and prioritise work, manage deadlines, exercise sound judgement, and reflect on personal strengths and development areas. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to meaningful public sector work while developing your commercial legal expertise within a collaborative and professional environment. Mandatory * The successful candidate must hold (or be eligible to hold) a current practising certificate under the Legal Profession Uniform Law 2014. * Relevant experience in commercial and/or corporate law; * Minimum of 2 years' post admission experience is preferable but not essential. * Relevant experience in government law, for example drafting commercial contracts, advising on administrative law. On a personal level the candidate will be client-focused and committed to delivering high-quality outcomes, demonstrating enthusiasm, integrity and a strong work ethic, while working collaboratively with others, respecting diverse perspectives, and upholding the public interest and the Department's values. What we offer: * The opportunity to perform meaningful work, making direct contributions toward enabling Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world. * A wide range of growth and development opportunities within the department and wider Victorian Public Service & Sector. * A strong commitment to work-life balance, including a diverse array of flexible working arrangements. How to apply: Applications should include a resume and a cover letter. Click the ‘Apply' button to view further information about the role including key contact details and the advertisement closing date. We are committed to developing and supporting a workforce that is well equipped and highly motivated to provide responsive and quality services to all Victorians. We continue to build an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity of backgrounds and differences to realise the potential of our employees for innovation and delivering services aimed at enhancing the lives of all Victorians. All roles can be worked flexibly and we encourage applications from Aboriginal people, people with disability, LGBTIQ and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Please contact us if you require any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process at inclusion@health.vic.gov.au. For more information on our commitment to inclusion and diversity see inclusion and diversity at the Department of Health. If you have any queries in relation to recruitment processes at Health, or experience any issues in applying, please feel free to email talentacquisition@health.vic.gov.au. Please note that unsolicited applications will not be replied to. If you have questions regarding the role specifically, we would advise you to reach out to the contact listed on the advertisement directly. Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and other pre-employment checks. Information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence in line with our Privacy Policy.