City of Carlsbad, NM - City Attorney

SGR • Carlsbad, NM

2d

About The Position

The City of Carlsbad is seeking an experienced attorney to safeguard the city’s legal interests, advise elected officials, and lead its Legal Division. The Division is part of the Executive Department and provides civil counsel, reviews contracts, drafts ordinances, and represents the city in judicial and administrative forums. The City Attorney reports to the City Manager.

The ideal candidate has local government law experience and is an approachable, solutions-oriented advisor who can build consensus among politically diverse stakeholders, explain complex legal concepts in plain English, and balance risk mitigation with pragmatic problem-solving. The role calls for courtroom advocacy, collaboration with executive leadership, transparency and accountability, and mentoring emerging legal talent. The candidate is expected to establish residency in Carlsbad and participate in community life.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school.
• At least 7 years of legal practice, including 4 years in municipal or government law and 3 years of supervisory experience.
• Current law license in good standing.
• Eligibility for admission to the New Mexico Bar through reciprocity or admission on motion under the New Mexico Rules Governing Admission to the Bar.
• Ability to obtain a New Mexico driver’s license.
• Ability to establish residency in the City of Carlsbad within six months.

Nice To Haves

• Significant oil and gas or natural-resources law background.
• Experience advising Mayor–Council jurisdictions.
• Advanced training in public-sector labor, procurement, and land-use law.

Responsibilities

• Safeguard the city’s legal and ethical integrity.
• Provide civil counsel to the city and its officials.
• Review and negotiate contracts and draft ordinances.
• Represent the city in judicial and administrative forums.
• Advise elected officials and collaborate with executive leadership.
• Lead the Legal Division and supervise and mentor legal staff.
• Build consensus across politically diverse stakeholders and communicate legal concepts clearly.
• Balance risk mitigation with pragmatic problem-solving.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree