Job Information
CITY OF PORTALES City Attorney-Portales in Portales, New Mexico
Veterans Preference:
The Jobs for Veterans Act mandates priority of service to veterans seeking employment and training opportunities. To ensure compliance with this law, this job posting will be available only to veterans for the first 24 hours. After this period, the job will be released to all job seekers.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The City Attorney serves as the chief legal advisor to the City Council, Mayor andvarious city departments. This position is responsible for providing legal guidance,representing the City in legal proceedings before city, state and federal courts andagencies and provides advice to the Mayor, Governing Body, City Manager, andDepartment Directors on all legal matters of concern to the city. Works closely with andprovides legal advice to the City Manager. The City Attorney plays a crucial role inprotecting the citys interests and promoting effective governance.
NOTE: THIS POSITION IS APPOINTED BY THE MAYOR AND APPROVED BY THECITY COUNCIL
TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:The City Attorney is charged with the following responsibilities: 1. Legal Counsel: Provide legal advice and guidance to city officials, departments,and committees on various issues, including contracts, zoning, land use, andmunicipal law. 2. Litigation Management: Unless they are provided to the City through the NewMexico Municipal League, to represent the city in legal proceedings, includingtrials, appeals, and administrative hearings. The City Attorney shall manageoutside counsel when necessary. 3. Drafting and Review: Prepare, review, and negotiate contracts, ordinances,resolutions, and other legal documents. Ensure compliance with applicable lawsand regulations. 4. Policy Development: Assist in the development and implementation of citypolicies and procedures, ensuring they align with legal standards. 5. Public Engagement: Educate city officials and the public on legal mattersaffecting the city. Conduct training sessions as needed. 6. Research and Analysis: Stay current on legal developments and trends affectingmunicipal law. Conduct legal research to support city initiatives. 7. Conflict Resolution: Mediate disputes involving the city, fostering resolutionthrough negotiation and alternative dispute resolution methods.
KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS: All applicants must meet the following minimum requirements. 1. Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school; 2. Admission to the state bar and in good standing; licensed to practice law in theState of New Mexico; 3. A minimum of 2 years of experience in municipal law or a related field; 4. A Strong Knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations affectingmunicipalities; 5. Excellent analytical, research and writing skills; 6. A strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectivelycommunicate with the City Council, the City Manager and other employees, otheragencies, and the general public using tact, courtesy and good judgment; 7. Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-pacedenvironment.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 1. A minimum of 2 years experience in litigation, governmental planning, zoning,land use, public relations, contracts, tort liability, labor and personnel law andcriminal procedures. 2. Familiarity with local government operations and structures. 3. Previous experience working with elected officials and city departments.
HOW TO APPLY Individuals who meet or exceed the criteria set forth above are required to complete anapplication, a copy of which is attached, together with a cover letter and detailedresume. Said documents can be obtained online at www.portalesnm.gov.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and WORK ENVIRONMENT Work may involve exposure to potentially hazardous, uncontrollable and lifethreatening situations. The City of Portales promotes a drug/alcohol free workenvironment through the use of random drug testing.
WORK SCHEDULE: The Attorney selected will be sche uled 8 hours a day for 5 days a week and availableto attend all City Council meetings on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month oras otherwise scheduled, the City Attorney shall also be subject to callback or weekends,holidays, as otherwise necessary. Additional time may be required after regular hours.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS: 1. The selected attorney must pass a background investigation including workhistory, criminal records, driving records and other records deemednecessary. 2. The selected attorney must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug screenadministered by a City-designated facility.
CONDITIONS OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT: 1. The City Attorney must be in current standing and have a current license topractice law in New Mexico. 2. Candidates must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record andinsurability in accordance withthe Citys insurance carrier. 3. Employees must maintain a source of communications for off duty workrelated communications.