Closing Date: 24th November, 2025
Description:
About the Position:The City of Sacramento is seeking a City Attorney. The next City Attorney for the City of Sacramento will be a highly intelligent, solutions-oriented legal strategist who brings deep expertise in California municipal law, an appreciation for the complexities of state and federal frameworks, and the creativity to help the City achieve its goals within the law. The Council seeks a legal advisor who begins with “how we can” rather than “why we can't”.
This individual will possess the intellectual rigor, confidence, and composure to navigate the full range of issues that come before a dynamic and visible capital city — from intergovernmental relations and high-profile litigation to emerging policy priorities in areas such as housing, equity, and public safety. The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable, thoughtful, and measured, recognizing when to advise, when to listen, and how to provide clear, factual counsel that empowers decision-makers.
As the leader of a high-performing, well-respected legal team, the City Attorney must be an effective manager and mentor — one who values collaboration, builds trust, and sustains a culture of professionalism and stability. The office has long been recognized for its quality, integrity, and low turnover, and the next City Attorney will be expected to preserve that strength while continuing to develop the team's bench of talent. Strong leadership and communication skills are critical, as is the ability to manage risk thoughtfully — not by avoiding it, but by identifying, mitigating, and managing it responsibly.
The Council values a City Attorney who is ethical, nonpartisan, and steady — someone who provides candid legal advice without engaging in political or interdepartmental drama. While intellectually curious and creative, this person will also embody humility, discretion, and a “no-flash” approach to public service. In short, Sacramento's next City Attorney will combine legal excellence, sound judgment, managerial skill, and a service mindset — protecting the City's interests while enabling progress.
Supplemental Information:
To be considered for this exceptional career opportunity, please submit your resume, cover letter, a list of six work-related references (two supervisors, two direct reports and two colleagues, who will not be notified without prior notification) to the electronic link below. Resume should reflect years and months of employment, beginning/ending dates as well as size of staff and budgets you have managed.
