Advisory Attorney (Assistant City Attorney III–IV)

City of Santa Barbara•Santa Barbara, CA

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

The City Attorney's Office is responsible for all legal representation and advice for the City Council, Boards, Commissions and all City officers and staff in all matters of law pertaining to the City as well as all City code enforcement and litigation services. The office is staffed by seven full-time attorneys (the City Attorney, Chief Assistant City Attorney, Assistant Prosecutor, and four Assistant City Attorneys), one investigator, one business manager, and five professional support staff who work as a close and collaborative team. The City Attorney’s Office seeks an experienced and collaborative attorney to serve as an Assistant City Attorney III or IV in an advisory capacity. The position provides legal counsel on a broad range of municipal law matters and works closely with City departments, the City Administrator’s Office, the City Council, boards, and commissions.

Requirements

Juris Doctor from accredited law school
Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California

Nice To Haves

Typically, seven or more years of progressively responsible experience in civil, municipal, or public agency law, preferably involving governmental clients. (Assistant City Attorney III)
Typically, ten or more years of experience advising on complex municipal law matters, including significant experience in public contracting, land use, public works, or general municipal advisory practice. (Assistant City Attorney IV)
Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills
Sound, practical judgment
Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
Effective time management and the ability to balance competing deadlines
Collaborative problem-solving and commitment to client service
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Responsibilities

Provide timely, practical legal advice to City departments, the City Council, and City leadership.
Advise on the Brown Act, Public Records Act, conflict-of-interest laws, ethics rules, and other laws governing public agencies.
Draft, review, and negotiate ordinances, resolutions, contracts, leases, MOUs, policies, and other legal documents.
Provide legal guidance on public contracting, procurement, competitive bidding, RFPs, contract administration, and risk allocation.
Advise on water law, environmental regulations, utility operations, conservation programs, water supply, and interagency agreements.
Research and analyze complex legal issues; prepare legal opinions, staff reports, and other written work.
Attend City Council and board or commission meetings to provide legal advice and assist with meeting procedures.
Present legal analysis and recommendations clearly to officials, City staff, and the public.
Collaborate with attorneys across the office to ensure consistent and coordinated legal advice.
Monitor changes in law and advise City officials on operational and policy impacts.