Assistant Corporation Counsel (Labor and Employment)

Jersey City, City of•Jersey City, NJ

About The Position

The City of Jersey City Law Department seeks an attorney for an Assistant Corporation Counsel position in the Labor and Employment Group. The role assists the Corporation Counsel and the head of the Labor and Employment Group with managing and handling lawsuits affecting the City. Responsibilities span litigation from the pre-complaint phase through pleadings, discovery, trial, and final resolution. The position also represents the City in disciplinary matters and unfair practice charges, and provides advice and counseling. The position is subject to the City’s Telework Pilot Program. The program’s evaluation period runs through the end of summer 2026, with continuation to be determined afterward. Employees may telework on one scheduled day per week under a pre-approved schedule and may request one additional unscheduled telework day per week, subject to Department Director approval and operational needs. Employees maintain their normal work hours while teleworking.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association.
Admission to the New Jersey Bar.
Strong research and writing skills.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, City of Jersey City employees, public officials, and the general public.
Sound judgment in evaluating situations and making decisions.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects, follow through, and meet deadlines.
Strong oral and written advocacy skills.
Knowledge of and experience handling litigation involving CEPA, NJLAD, ADA, ADEA, and Title VII.

Nice To Haves

Judicial clerkship and/or one or more years in the practice of law.
Familiarity with the general workings and activities of municipal government.
Previous defense-side litigation experience.
Familiarity with the Civil Service Act.

Responsibilities

Manage incoming litigation from the pre-complaint phase through pleadings, discovery, and final resolution, including trial.
Draft and review written discovery responses.
Prepare witnesses for and defend depositions.
Take depositions of opposing witnesses and parties.
Interview witnesses during investigation and case preparation.
Prepare for and attend mediations and settlement conferences.
Negotiate pre-trial resolutions of litigation.
Represent the City at disciplinary hearings and appeals before the Office of Administrative Law.
Represent the City in unfair practice charges before the Public Employees Relations Commission.
Provide advice and counseling.
Perform other duties and responsibilities at the request of the Corporation Counsel or head of the Labor and Employment Group.