Assistant Counsel I/II

The Air District is recruiting for the position of Assistant Counsel I/II in the Legal Office. This is a full-time, exempt, management position. There may be up to two (2) vacancies.

The Air District is also recruiting for the Senior Assistant Counsel position concurrently with this recruitment for the Assistant Counsel I/II position. Applicants may apply for one or both positions at the same time.

Under direction, the position performs legal work of a routine to complex nature representing the Air District, provides advice and counsel to Air District management and staff, represents the Air District in court and administrative proceedings, and performs related work as assigned.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Assistant Counsel I is the entry level in this specialized attorney series. It is designed to allow an experienced civil attorney to gain specific environmental law experience. This class is alternately staffed with Assistant Counsel II, and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency that meet the qualifications of the higher level class.

Assistant Counsel II is the journey level class of this specialized series, fully competent to perform a wide range of environmental law work. This class is responsible for providing effective legal counsel in complex and controversial environmental law matters. This class is distinguished from Senior Assistant Counsel in that the latter assists in administering and coordinating all phases of legal work for the Legal Division.

Examples of Duties for this Position

(Illustrative Only)

Advises Air District departmental management regarding Air District authority, jurisdiction, functions and operational procedures.

Researches legal problems and prepares opinions, briefs, regulations, resolutions, and other legal documents.

Prepares and tries routine to difficult cases, often involving a specialized body of law.

Represents the Air District in court and in administrative hearings before boards and commissions and state and federal agencies.

Investigates and prepares reports regarding claims by and against the Air District and recommends actions to be taken.

Reviews regulations, resolutions, contracts and other documents for legal sufficiency; recommends modifications as required.

Maintains accurate records and files and compiles reports of work performed.

Monitors legal developments, including proposed legislation and court decisions; evaluates their impact on Air District operations and recommends appropriate action.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills is:

Assistant Counsel I: Equivalent to graduation from a college or university plus an appropriate law degree and two years of experience as an attorney engaged in the practice of civil law with a public agency, preferably involving environmental law. Experience in litigation and negotiation is desirable.

Assistant Counsel II: In addition to the above, two additional years of experience as an attorney engaged in the practice of environmental law with a public agency in the State of California.

Other Requirements:
Must be a member in good standing of the State Bar of California at the time of hire.