Assistant City Solicitor – Real Estate and Development Unit

City of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

3d • $81,500 - $91,928 • Onsite

About The Position

The City of Philadelphia Law Department serves as general counsel to the entire City government, providing legal advice to all City officials, employees, departments, agencies, boards, and commissions. The Law Department's civil practice includes unique issues involving public interest in business, health, safety, commerce, civil rights, taxation, and community development. The Real Estate and Development Unit of the Law Department represents the City in major economic development initiatives and real estate transactions. The attorneys in this unit serve as corporate, real estate, and transactional counsel to all City Departments and are called upon to help structure, negotiate, and document any transfer or acquisition of City property interests or licensing of City property. This is an entry-level position for attorneys interested in real estate and contract law. The attorney will work on transactional matters including negotiating, reviewing and drafting lease agreements, licenses agreements, deeds, grant agreements, professional service contracts and other agreements. The attorney will also research property title history and draft ordinances to obtain Philadelphia City Council authorization when needed for transactions.

Requirements

• Candidates must have a law degree from an ABA accredited law school.
• Must be a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204).
• Continued employment of attorneys not admitted to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within six (6) months of hire is at the discretion of the Law Department.
• Familiarity with agreements and documents related to real estate transactions.
• Knowledge of real estate laws, legal codes, government regulations, executive orders, and agency rules and process.
• Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.
• Ability to find what applicable laws and regulations apply to a specific matter.
• Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
• Must be able to clearly present and explain their positions, and answer questions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to identify and analyze legal issues within complex fact patterns.
• Ability to foster and maintain a collegial, inclusive, and professional work environment.
• Excellent writing and negotiating skills.
• Excellent judgment and critical thinking in high-pressure situations.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work on teams and collaborate with colleagues and clients.
• The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire.

Nice To Haves

• One (1) year plus of relevant experience within a legal setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advising and representing City Departments in all real estate transactions involving the use of City property or the City’s use of private property.
• Reviewing and evaluating federal and state laws and City ordinances that affect the real estate functions of the City.
• Researching and analyzing issues and drafting documents relating to real estate law, the Philadelphia Code and the Philadelphia Charter.

Benefits

• Unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
• 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• Access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships (10% to 40% savings) with partner colleges and universities, extending to spouse and dependents in some cases.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level