Assistant City Attorney IV - Municipal Operations

City of Austin•Austin, TX

1d•Hybrid

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. The attorneys in the Municipal Operations Division provide legal advice to City Council and City staff, and handle complex matters relating to finance matters, procurement, leases and permits, economic growth and development, budget, transportation, public health, and construction. The work is transactional but may include support for the Litigation Division in cases involving their projects and participation in alternative dispute resolution processes. Attorneys advise City Council in writing as well as by presenting at City Council meetings, both in public and in executive sessions. The attorney may be responsible for negotiating and drafting contracts, conducting regulatory research, reviewing, and drafting legal memoranda, resolutions, ordinances, City Code amendments, agenda postings, and other legal instruments.

Requirements

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 in a clear and effective manner.
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 use of Departmental computer systems and technology.
Effective law office organizational skills.
Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks, schedule interruptions, and shifting time 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.
Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
Twelve (12) full years of active practice as a licensed attorney.
License to practice law issued by the State Bar of Texas.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with bond counsel in all phases of municipal bond transactions, including general obligation bonds, revenue bonds, refundings, lease-purchase financings, and tax increment financings.
Experience reviewing bond documents, resolutions, official statements, continuing disclosure agreements, and closing documents.
Experience advising clients on federal tax law issues related to tax-exempt and taxable municipal bonds, including private business use and post-issuance compliance.
Experience advising clients on complex finance and real estate transactions.
Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex contracts, ordinances, resolutions, policies, and agreements.
Experience in representing the City in complex negotiations and stakeholder meetings with multiple parties.
Experience with handling pre-litigation disputes, claims, and resolutions, and monitoring and assisting with litigation cases.

Responsibilities

Provide advanced level legal advice to elected officials and senior and executive management on highly complex issues that may have high political/financial impact.
Assist other attorneys on other assignments.
Perform research on complex legal issues with a high level of political or financial impact.
Prepare legal documents on complex legal matters.
Act as a lead representative of the City in complex internal and external legal matters that have significant political/financial impact.
Supervise other attorneys or staff on an acting or interim basis.
Provide substantial mentoring and training to lower-level attorneys on legal issues and legal skills.
Lead project teams or cross-Divisional work teams.

Benefits

Comprehensive compensation package
Generous leave
Work-life balance programs
Extensive benefits
Retirement Security with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System
Sustainable Transportation Options (public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure)
Wellness programs
On-site fitness centers
Mental health support
Professional development opportunities
Leadership opportunities
Modern Workspaces
Medical coverage
Dental coverage
Vision coverage
Paid leave time
A comprehensive retirement plan
Training opportunities