Description:

A Government Entity is seeking a City Attorney to direct and manage the City Attorney's Office and serve as the chief legal advisor to the City and its Council, City Manager, City staff, and departments on a broad range of advanced and complex legal issues. The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council and serves with integrity and respect at all times. They collaborate across the organization to produce the highest quality results while working towards accomplishing the City's vision, goals, and strategic plan. The City Attorney actively promotes the City's organizational values, including diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and encourages a positive and supportive work environment that prioritizes a culture of collaboration and clear communication.

Responsibilities:
  • Develop an understanding of our organization, become familiar with our City Council vision and priorities, and ensure alignment with the City's strategic initiatives.
  • Effectively partner with the City Manager to understand operational issues, identify and assess potential legal implications, and proactively provide guidance and advice to facilitate citywide initiatives.
  • Engage as an active member of the Executive Leadership Team. Partner with colleagues and work across departments to advance Council goals and City priorities in alignment with Beaverton's organizational values and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
  • Quickly come up to speed on the current work of the City Attorney's Office. Actively discuss cases, develop strategies as needed, and successfully partner with the staff to provide sound legal advice on ongoing initiatives.
  • Embrace the values of the Beaverton community. Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the issues affecting the community, advance creative solutions, and balance political neutrality with recognition of Council and community goals in order to successfully navigate future complex legal issues.
  • Work in partnership with the City Manager to support and implement the new City Charter and ongoing transition to the Council-Manager form of government. Educate the Council as needed to ensure they make informed policy decisions in the best interest of the Beaverton community.
  • Ensure effective communication. Proactively provide ongoing updates to City Council on strategic initiatives, legal matters, and progress on the work of the City Attorney's Office.

Qualifications:
A minimum of eight years of progressively responsible legal experience relevant to municipal law is required. Direct leadership experience managing attorneys and paraprofessional legal personnel is essential. A broad and diverse municipal government background with legal expertise in more than one area of law is required. Direct experience working in a large and/or complex agency with an elected body in the Council-Manager form of government is ideal. A strong budget and financial management background is essential. Knowledge of federal, state, and local civil and administrative law, including statutes, regulations, rules, and ordinances applicable to city operations, functions, and personnel, is required.

A Juris Doctor from a fully accredited law school is required. Must be licensed to practice law in the State of Oregon and be a member in good standing with the Oregon State Bar or licensed in a state with the ability to be admitted to the Oregon State Bar prior to start date. Oregon Criminal Justice Information Services security clearance must be obtained prior to the start date.

It is widely stated—and supported by studies—that candidates, especially women, are less likely to apply for a job unless they believe they meet 100% of the hiring criteria. The City's talent acquisition goals include hiring the candidate who is best able to meet the performance objectives of the role. We, therefore, encourage persons with non-traditional skill sets and experiences to apply, even if you believe you do not meet 100% of the qualifications and hiring criteria described.