City Attorney

The City of Topeka is seeking an experienced legal professional to serve as its City Attorney. This is an executive-level position that serves as the chief legal advisor and is responsible for providing legal counsel to the Governing Body, City Manager, departments, boards and commissions. Key responsibilities include planning, staffing and supervising the legal service needs of the City, representing the City in all legal proceedings, and preparing contracts, ordinances, resolutions, leases and proposed legislation. The City Attorney is appointed by the City Manager and serves at-will.

What you'll do:

• Oversee and coordinate all work and responsibilities of the department, including supervising, mentoring and evaluating subordinate staff.
• Conduct legal research and provide legal advice to ensure all municipal operations are conducted within the framework of the law.
• Review and recommend ordinances, resolutions, policies and code provisions.
• Represent and manage the City’s civil litigation, administrative hearings and other legal proceedings.
• Attend the Governing Body and other public meetings as required.

The ideal candidate:

• Has excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Is knowledgeable in the legal principles, practices and procedures of civil, criminal, constitutional and administrative law.
• Has the ability to analyze complex problems and make sound decisions.
• Is relationship driven, with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Minimum of five years of professional experience as chief legal counsel and one year of experience supervising professional staff.
• Licensed to practice law in the state of Kansas, or ability to be licensed in Kansas within 12 months of hire.
• Experience in municipal or governmental law is preferred.
• Must pass an extensive background check.

Annual Entry Salary: $160,000 - $185,000, depending on qualifications

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The City of Topeka offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, Prescription and Vision Insurance
• Paid Life/Long Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Vacation & Holidays
• KPERS 401(a) Retirement Plan
• (457) Deferred Comp Savings Plan
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Free Onsite Health & Wellness Clinic
• Full-Service Fitness Facility
• Employee Assistance Program

The City of Topeka is an Equal Opportunity Employer