Senior Attorney

Senior Attorney – Civil Division City of Bellevue Are you a dynamic, forward-thinking attorney with substantial experience representing government looking for a cooperative and vibrant environment to further your professional development? Are you excited about the opportunity to work for a thriving, diverse city with unique challenges? Are you a dynamic problem solver who is not afraid to challenge the status quo? If so, we invite you to explore the City of Bellevue and its City Attorney’s Office. Bellevue is routinely ranked among the best mid-sized cities in the country. The Bellevue City Attorney’s Office is a 30-member department that provides civil advice, litigation, and criminal prosecution. We are looking for an exceptional candidate to fill a Senior Attorney position, with a focus on litigation, and join our fast-paced, collegial and supportive work environment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Prelitigation claims investigation, evaluation, and negotiations. Represent the City in all aspects of litigation in state and federal courts and before administrative bodies, including appellate representation. Provide advice, counseling, and support to City Departments and divisions both orally and in writing, on various facets of municipal law including procurement, public works contracting and construction claims, land use, and the public records act. Respond to inquiries from the City Council, City Leadership and Staff, as requested. Research, draft, and review legal documents, including legal opinions, contracts, and agreements with other governmental agencies and third parties. Assist City departments in drafting resolutions and ordinances for adoption by the City Council. Respond to and analyze state and federal legislation and advise City departments of legal requirements and impacts. Other duties as assigned. Supervision Performed under moderate to general supervision of a Supervising Attorney in the City Attorney’s Office. Qualifications Substantial litigation experience through trial and subsequent appeals, including “first‑chair” trial experience and independent responsibility for assigned cases. Experience in land use matters, administrative land use appeals, and litigation under the Land Use Petition Act (chapter 36.70C RCW) is preferred. In‑depth knowledge of municipal law and other legal requirements that apply to governments is preferred. Knowledge and experience advising clients on procurement, public works contracting and construction claims, land use, and the public records act are preferred. Excellent legal research and analytical skills, including using Westlaw. Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly, logically and persuasively and adapt communication style to diverse audiences. Ability to make clear and convincing oral presentations and in writing; effective listening skills. Ability to exercise sound, independent judgment within general guidelines. Ability to obtain results by carrying out assigned projects to their completion. Good organization, prioritization and collaboration skills. Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with co‑workers, city elected officials and leadership, other city staff, and the public. Ability to assess and recognize own strengths and weaknesses to pursue self‑development; willingness to take direction from senior staff. Commitment to serving the public. Education and Experience Graduate of an ABA accredited law school with a Juris Doctor degree. Currently licensed and in good standing to practice law in the State of Washington. Minimum of five (5) years of relevant litigation experience including independent responsibility for assigned cases and “first-chair” trial experience. Or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Flexible/Hybrid Working The City is implementing a flexible/hybrid work policy that will allow staff to work remotely. Remote work for this position is subject to department's operational needs and will be discussed with candidates during the selection process. Once hired, employees must reside in the State of Washington. Hiring Process The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when screening the applications. The application will be redacted for identifying information. Complete the online application form as fully as possible. Answer supplemental questions when requested which can be found on the Questions tab of the job posting. No resumes and cover letters are accepted during the anonymous screening stage, unless otherwise stated. Applicants advancing to the next stage may be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references. Conditions of Employment All candidates must establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City does not sponsor work visas. Positions require completion of reference checks, including at least one prior supervisor. Some positions may require a criminal background check prior to starting employment. Some positions may require obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), licensures, or additional certifications. Equal Opportunity Employer At the City of Bellevue, you're part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest and advancing the community vision. The six enduring principles that guide our actions are: Exceptional Public Service, Stewardship, Commitment to Employees, Integrity, Innovation, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. It’s what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore. Have we piqued your interest yet? Come join our team The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office at 425‑452‑6838 or recruiting@bellevuewa.gov. If you are invited to participate and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before your interview or testing. The City of Bellevue participates in the E‑Verify program. Learn more about the E‑Verify program below. https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/IER_RightToWorkPoster.pdfhttps://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/IER_RighttoWorkPosterES.pdf For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at 855‑524‑5627. Please be sure to check your junk folder for any messages that may have been sent to you about this recruitment. #J-18808-Ljbffr