Website City of Evanston
Salary Range: $90,823.86 – $136,236.30/annually
*Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint for range.
NATURE OF WORK:
Under the direction of the Corporation Counsel, the Assistant City Attorney advises City staff on legal issues; draft and review documents; and represent the City in administrative and/or court proceedings.
The Assistant City Attorney serves as staff to the various boards and commissions as assigned by the Corporation Counsel and may be required to attend evening meetings on occasion.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Specific assignment will include some or all of the following):
● At the direction of the Corporation Counsel, researches and responds to inquiries from staff, elected officials, and others concerning City ordinances, state law, federal law, case law and other sources as they relate to City operations.
● Provides advice and counsel on municipal law topics including but not limited to labor, employment, personnel, land-use, procurement, public records, open meetings and civil rights.
● Represents the City in legal proceedings including but not limited to administrative hearings; prosecution of City ordinances and the Illinois Vehicle Code; real estate closings, bankruptcy proceedings, real estate tax appeals, and civil litigation in state and federal court.
● Assists in responding to and provides advice and counsel regarding the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
● Assists in the drafting of legislation and researches and analyzes the legality of proposed legislation.
● Drafts and reviews legal documents including contracts, legislation, pleadings and motions.
● Attends City Council meetings or Boards and Commission meetings as assigned.
● As necessary acts in the capacity of the Corporation Counsel and/or Deputy City Attorney in their absence.
● Performs other duties as assigned or required.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
Must possess a Juris Doctor from an accredited school of law and three (3) or more years of work experience as a licensed attorney.
Must be actively licensed and in good standing to practice law in the State of Illinois or be eligible for reciprocal admission.
Must be eligible for admission to the general bar for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and a safe driving record.
Must be willing and able to attend evening meetings as required.
Prior experience with zoning, land use, and/or real estate contracts is preferred.
Experience with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act is preferred.
● Knowledge, skills, and abilities in the following areas:
o Knowledge of and ability to apply the rules of procedure and rules of evidence.
o Strong working knowledge in the principles, practices, methods, materials and references utilized in legal research.
o Knowledge of FOIA practices and laws governing the release of City records.
o Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of “clients” and staff throughout the City and outside of the organization.
o Ability to learn, understand and incorporate City ordinances, rules, regulations and procedures into daily activities, including knowledge of laws pertaining to local government.
o Ability to read, understand, and interpret manuals, ordinances, policies and procedures, statutes, rules, regulations, journals, newspapers, memos, letters, reports, and legal documents.
o Familiarity with and willingness to learn Robert’s Rules of Order.
o Ability to read and interpret legal documents, contracts, ordinances and resolutions, legal forms, tax codes, real estate and enforcement code books, and legal publications.
o Ability to provide courteous and professional customer service to City residents and staff.
o Careful attention to detail, initiative, problem-solving skills, organizational aptitude, punctuality and professional deportment are essential. Ability to exercise initiative in completing assigned tasks and utilize independent work habits to discharge their duties with minimal supervision.
o Ability to multi-task many variable duties and responsibilities.
o Ability to use a personal computer, software including Microsoft Office, typewriter, telephone equipment, fax machine, credit card machines, calculator, copiers, bookkeeping, and filing systems.
o Ability to provide courteous and professional customer service to City residents and staff.
o Careful attention to detail, initiative, problem-solving skills, organizational aptitude, punctuality and professional deportment are essential.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
Ability to work primarily in a sedentary position, occasionally using force to lift, carry or otherwise move objects normally found in an office setting.
This employee is subject to inside environmental conditions.
SUPERVISION:
Under the general direction of the Corporation Counsel, work is performed with the guidance of the Deputy City Attorney. The individual has contact with other division and department staff at all levels and uses the necessary resources in other departments and divisions. Specific projects are assigned by the Corporation Counsel along with the Deputy City Attorney. Projects are also assigned in furtherance of the general goals and objectives set by the Department and overall City management. The employee is responsible for prioritizing work tasks, and for identifying and utilizing the appropriate resources to resolve a problem or situation and for researching and analyzing specific data. Direct supervision is provided by the Deputy City Attorney. Performance is reviewed through observation, completion of projects, status reports, conferences, and meetings. Work is evaluated at least annually with respect to problem-solving ability, research and analytical skills, written and verbal communication skills, and performance in accordance with this classification standard. Employee must be capable of exercising initiative and independent judgment working independently under the supervision of the Deputy City Attorney.
PUBLIC CONTACT:
The employee has regular and frequent contact with division and department employees as well as other City employees and with the general public and outside legal institutions as well.
SELECTION METHOD TYPE OF ELIGIBILITY LIST LIFE OF ELIGIBILITY LIST
Structured Oral Interview
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To apply for this position, please apply online at www.cityofevanston.org on or before the closing date.
Chosen candidates will be required to provide proof of licenses, certifications, and education required for this position. Candidates will also be subject to qualifying pre-employment processes, including medical examination, drug/alcohol screen, employment verification, and criminal background check.
The City of Evanston is an equal opportunity employer and ensures against discrimination in employment on the basis of a person’s race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge status, source of income, housing status, or gender identity. The City of Evanston is also committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Any person needing mobility or communications access assistance should contact Human Resources at 847-448-8204 (voice) or 847-866-5095 (TTY).
To apply for this job email your details to humanresources@cityofevanston.org