Assistant City Attorney III - Municipal Operations Division

City of Austin • Austin, TX

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About The Position

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. Under the direction of the City Attorney, this position provides legal services to and on behalf of the City.

Requirements

• Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
• Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
• Seven (7) full years of active practice as a licensed attorney.
• License to practice law issued by the State Bar of Texas.
• Knowledge of substantive laws applicable to Texas local governments.
• Knowledge of the City of Austin Charter, Code, and administrative policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of relevant court procedures and rules of evidence.
• Ability to communicate and present analysis and information both orally and in writing clearly and effectively.
• Ability to conduct thorough and accurate legal and factual research relevant to the job assignment.
• Ability to analyze and problem solve in a timely fashion on legal issues relevant to the job assignment.
• Proficiency in the use of Departmental computer systems and technology.
• Effective law office organizational skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks, adapt to interruptions, and shift time-sensitive deadlines.
• Ability to conform to Departmental administrative procedures and requirements.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in public contract law, corporate organization, insurance, and payment.
• Experience in the public or private sector advising clients regarding complex transactions with developers for development or redevelopment of land, procurement, tax matters, aviation, and/or real estate matters.
• Experience in the public sector.
• Understands and respects City’s standards, policies, City ordinances, and local, state, and federal regulations; drafts, reviews, and/or provides legal direction for City policies and litigation matters, including ordinances and resolutions.
• Provides proactive advice in connection with areas such as purchasing, finance, contracts, real estate, litigation, government regulations, and other areas; anticipates issues and estimates risks strategically.
• Coordinates and collaborates with outside counsel on legal matters requiring specialized legal expertise, ensuring that delivery, quality, and budgetary standards are maintained
• Reviews agendas for public meetings to ensure compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act for public and executive session meetings.

Responsibilities

• Provides legal advice to senior and executive management, and to elected officials, on primarily complex issues that may have high political or financial impact.
• Performs research on complex legal issues with moderate political or financial impact.
• Prepares legal documents for senior managers on routine or moderately complex matters.
• Acts as a lead or supporting representative of the City in internal and external legal matters that have a significant political/ financial impact.
• Provides some mentoring and training to lower-level attorneys on legal issues and legal skills.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees