Description

Purpose:

With general direction, this position supervises the activities and staff of a division or specific function of the Law Department.

• Assists in providing legal advice to management/council/departments.

• Compiles data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc.

• Coordinates research information as requested and/or needed.

• Negotiates with citizens, businesses, attorneys, etc. to resolve legal actions involving the City.

• Writes/drafts legal documents, i.e., contracts, regulations, ordinance amendments, resolutions, etc.

• Writes legal opinions.

• Handles complex legal matters requiring substantial legal experience

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling and recommendation for dismissal.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence.

• Knowledge of civil and criminal law.

• Knowledge of municipal law and specialized area of law relevant to municipal practice.

• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.

• Knowledge of City practice, policy and procedures.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.

• Skill in using computers and related software.

• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.

• Skill in planning and organizing.

• Ability to conduct research on legal problems and prepare opinions.

• Ability to prepare and review legal documents.

• Ability to analyze facts and precedents in order to present them effectively in court.

• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.

Minimum Qualifications:
Graduation from an accredited school of law plus five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney with a minimum of three (3) year's experience in a lead or supervisory capacity.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

Member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.

Preferred Qualifications:

• The most successful candidates will have a leadership style founded upon team building, collaboration, and facilitation; a strong work ethic and comfort level in a fast-moving environment; and political astuteness and comfort interacting with elected officials, stakeholders, and business leaders.

• Makes clear and convincing oral presentations.

• Listens effectively; clarifies information as needed.

• Writes in a clear, concise, organized, and persuasive manner for the intended audience. 

• Balances among competing priorities and multitasks appropriately.

• Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy and enthusiasm.

• Timely carries out assigned projects to their completion.

• Treats others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect. Relates comfortably with diverse groups of people.

• Identifies key issues and proposes multiple possible solutions or resources needed to reach an optimum solution for the City.

• Thinks first from principles rather than being solely guided by pre-established documents, procedures, processes or historical practices.

• The position requires sound judgment and good technical skills.

• The successful candidate will be analytical, thorough and detail oriented.

• The candidate must have excellent organizational skills and be proficient and knowledgeable in Microsoft, document management, and file and calendar management. 

Notes to Candidate:

This position requires a cover letter and résumé. Please upload your documents for consideration. 

We are seeking an energetic, self-motivated individual licensed to practice law in Texas and in good standing with the Texas State Bar to fill a full-time Division Chief position with the City of Austin City Attorney's Office.

The Austin City Attorney's Office is a mid-sized, in-house law firm with an average of 60 attorneys.  The department meets the vast majority of the City's legal needs, ranging from areas as diverse as animal control to zoning. Our key activities are to advocate and resolve disputes, to review and develop contracts, and to render opinions and advice.

The mission of the Austin City Attorney's Office is to provide quality legal services to the City of Austin, enabling it to govern lawfully with the highest level of integrity and serve the community effectively.  As the chief legal advisor for the City, the Austin City Attorney's Office provides legal advice and representation to the Mayor, City Council, City Officers, City Manager, city departments, boards, and commissions of the City.

Come work for a governmental entity that cares about human rights and is at the forefront of current issues. You can help make a difference in the daily lives of people living in the Austin community.

Professional Growth and Development

Achieve your professional goals. The Law Department offers opportunities to advance within our Attorney and Paralegal career ladder, as well as a wide variety of learning opportunities.

Work-Life Balance

Enjoy a balanced lifestyle in a city renowned for its quality of life, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

Hybrid Work Environment:

The City of Austin’s Flexible Work Arrangement Program is designed to empower employees and leaders to establish hybrid work arrangements that promote high levels of performance and engagement. Staff may be eligible to telework for up to 60% of the week. Work schedules are implemented to meet department requirements and are subject to change based on business needs.