Division Chief, Municipal Operations - Austin City Attorney's Office

City of Austin • Austin, TX

22d • Hybrid

About The Position

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM 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. With general direction, this position supervises the activities and staff of a division or specific function of the Law Department. Assists in providing legal advice to management/council/departments. Compiles data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc. Coordinates research information as requested and/or needed. Negotiates with citizens, businesses, attorneys, etc. to resolve legal actions involving the City. Writes/drafts legal documents, i.e., contracts, regulations, ordinance amendments, resolutions, etc. Writes legal opinions. Handles complex legal matters requiring substantial legal experience

Requirements

• Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of civil and criminal law.
• Knowledge of municipal law and specialized area of law relevant to municipal practice.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Knowledge of City practice, policy and procedures.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Ability to conduct research on legal problems and prepare opinions.
• Ability to prepare and review legal documents.
• Ability to analyze facts and precedents in order to present them effectively in court.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.
• Graduation from an accredited school of law plus five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney with a minimum of three (3) year's experience in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.

Nice To Haves

• The most successful candidates will have a leadership style founded upon team building, collaboration, and facilitation; a strong work ethic and comfort level in a fast-moving environment; and political astuteness and comfort interacting with elected officials, stakeholders, and business leaders.
• Makes clear and convincing oral presentations.
• Listens effectively; clarifies information as needed.
• Writes in a clear, concise, organized, and persuasive manner for the intended audience.
• Balances among competing priorities and multitasks appropriately.
• Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy and enthusiasm.
• Timely carries out assigned projects to their completion.
• Treats others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect.
• Relates comfortably with diverse groups of people.
• Identifies key issues and proposes multiple possible solutions or resources needed to reach an optimum solution for the City.
• Thinks first from principles rather than being solely guided by pre-established documents, procedures, processes or historical practices.
• The position requires sound judgment and good technical skills.
• The successful candidate will be analytical, thorough and detail oriented.
• The candidate must have excellent organizational skills and be proficient and knowledgeable in Microsoft, document management, and file and calendar management.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling and recommendation for dismissal.
• Assists in providing legal advice to management/council/departments.
• Compiles data/information for reports, cost estimates, etc.
• Coordinates research information as requested and/or needed.
• Negotiates with citizens, businesses, attorneys, etc. to resolve legal actions involving the City.
• Writes/drafts legal documents, i.e., contracts, regulations, ordinance amendments, resolutions, etc.
• Writes legal opinions.
• Handles complex legal matters requiring substantial legal experience

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees