Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Job Classification: Assistant City Attorney I to Senior Assistant City Attorney II
Section: Neighborhood Services
Reporting Location: 900 BAGBY
Workdays & Hours: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM* *Subject to Change
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The City of Houston Legal Department strives to provide the highest quality municipal legal services to the City, its elected and appointed officials, and its employees in the most efficient manner feasible through adherence to the following guiding principles:
* Quality & Service - Achieving high customer satisfaction as judged by our clients.
* Partnership & Teamwork - Working cooperatively internally and with our clients to achieve the City's goals.
* Integrity & Candor - Acting with a commitment to honesty and ethical behavior.
* Dignity & Diversity - Demonstrating esteem for the worth of each individual.
* Innovation & Imagination - Seeking novel and creative approaches to achieving the City's objectives.
Composed of approximately 100 of Houston's finest attorneys working in 10 legal practice sections, the OCA handles personal injury, commercial and civil rights litigation, major commercial and real estate transactions, and a diverse array of human resources, labor and employment matters, while also counseling the municipal corporation on economic development, constitutional, election matters, ethics and quality of life matters, and preparing City ordinances governing Houston and its citizens.
Every member of the OCA is committed to "Service Through Law."
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The City of Houston is seeking a skilled and community-oriented Attorney to join its Neighborhood Services team. This role focuses on supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Houston's neighborhoods through legal enforcement, ordinance interpretation, code compliance, and collaboration with community partners.
The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to supporting safe, vibrant, and resilient neighborhoods as a proactive problem-solver with strong communication skills and a passion for public service. The Neighborhood Services Section seeks analytical and resourceful attorneys who can manage a diverse caseload while providing sound legal guidance.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
* Provide legal counsel and representation related to neighborhood protection, code enforcement, nuisance abatement, dangerous buildings, and related municipal matters.
* Draft, review, and interpret ordinances, legal opinions, contracts, and other municipal documents.
* Represent the City in administrative hearings, municipal court, and state court as needed.
* Work closely with departments such as Public Works, Police, Planning, and Administrative and Regulatory Affairs to address neighborhood issues.
* Coordinate with community organizations, civic groups, and elected officials on matters impacting neighborhood health and safety.
* Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda, reports, and recommendations for City leadership.
* Support strategic initiatives related to blight reduction, public safety, regulatory compliance, and neighborhood revitalization efforts.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.
Educational:
Requires a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an American Bar Association accredited college of law.
Experience:
For Assistant City Attorney I: No experience required.*
For Assistant City Attorney II: Minimum of 4 years of experience practicing law.
For Senior Assistant City Attorney I: Minimum of 8 years of experience practicing law.
For Senior Assistant City Attorney II: Minimum of 13 years of experience practicing law.
License:
Must be an active member in good standing of the Texas State Bar and eligible for admission to Federal court. License to practice law in Texas must be kept current as a condition of employment.
* License for Assistant City Attorney I: Must, or within 6 months of the first day of employment with the City of Houston, become an active member in good standing of the Texas State Bar and be eligible for admission to Federal court. License to practice law in Texas must be kept current as a condition of employment.
Preference will be given to applicants with:
* 3 years of experience, preferably in a government or litigation setting.
* Knowledge of municipal codes, state statutes, and regulatory frameworks affecting cities.
* Strong litigation, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
* Ability to manage a diverse caseload with attention to detail and deadlines.
* Commitment to equitable and community-centered problem solving.
* Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments and community stakeholders.
* Excellent analytical and organizational skills.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills.
* Experience working with law enforcement and federal, state, and local agencies.
* Texas experience preferred but other jurisdictions will be considered.
* Proficiency with the Office 365 suite of programs, including Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams, OneDrive Business, as well as other Microsoft collaborative platforms such as SharePoint; and proficiency with electronic legal research tools such as Westlaw Edge, Practical Law, and Drafting Assistant
* Willing to work extended hours as needed to accommodate work demands.
Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.
SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED:
All applicants will be expected to provide a writing sample and transcripts.
All applicants must upload a current resume in addition to completing the application.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: No
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
SALARY INFORMATION:
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in the appropriate classification.
Pay Grade: Varies
APPLICATION PROCEDURES:
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call (832) 393-0350.
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information.
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
If you need special services or accommodations, call (832) 393-0650.
If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627
EOE - Equal Opportunity Employment
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
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