City Attorney - City of Hutchinson

City of Hutchinson • Hutchinson, KS

1d

About The Position

The City of Hutchinson is seeking a highly experienced and strategic legal professional to serve as City Attorney . This executive-level position provides comprehensive legal counsel to the City Manager, City Council, and all City departments while overseeing the administration and delivery of municipal legal services. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned municipal attorney to play a critical role in shaping policy, ensuring legal compliance, and supporting the effective governance of a full-service city. The City Attorney is responsible for providing a broad range of legal services related to municipal operations, governance, development, employment, and risk management. The position serves as the City's chief legal advisor and manages legal staff and external counsel as needed. The City Attorney reports directly to the City Manager and works closely with elected officials, department directors, boards, commissions, and community partners.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Minimum of six (6) years of broad professional legal experience in municipal law
• Experience in legal research, drafting, courtroom/trial work, and municipal governance
• License to practice law in the State of Kansas
• Active membership in the Kansas Bar Association
• Valid Kansas Driver's License

Nice To Haves

• Supervisory or management experience preferred
• Extensive knowledge of municipal law and public sector legal issues
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex matters simultaneously
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and ethical judgment
• Ability to work independently while providing collaborative leadership

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and representation on all aspects of municipal law, including land use, zoning, development, contracts, employment, civil service, open government, liability, purchasing, and utilities
• Draft, review, and negotiate ordinances, resolutions, contracts, agreements, deeds, leases, and other legal documents
• Attend and advise at City Council meetings, study sessions, executive sessions, public hearings, and work sessions
• Review and prepare legal items for City Council agendas
• Advise the Planning Department on zoning requests, plats, and land-use matters
• Coordinate and manage outside legal counsel and litigation matters
• Maintain and update the municipal code
• Provide legal support for employee relations, workers' compensation, and the City's self-insured liability program
• Monitor and interpret legislation, regulations, and case law affecting municipal operations
• Supervise, evaluate, and lead assigned legal staff
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and ordinances

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience
• KPERS retirement
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and paid leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees