
From Stress to Serenity: How Travel Is Becoming the New Therapy
To harness the therapeutic potential of travel, municipal governments and local tourism boards can play a strategic role in shaping visitor experiences that prioritize mental and emotional well-being. This means going beyond traditional sightseeing packages and building infrastructure, programming, and partnerships that support wellness tourism. Destinations are increasingly curating experiences that promote mindfulness, such as guided forest bathing walks, yoga retreats, or digital detox itineraries in rural areas. These initiatives not only benefit travelers but also local economies by encouraging longer stays and off-peak visitation.
For example, British Columbia’s tourism framework includes programs that support Indigenous-led wellness tourism, integrating cultural teachings with nature-based healing practices. These offerings appeal to travelers seeking deeper connections and restorative environments. Municipal tourism offices can replicate similar models by collaborating with local wellness practitioners, cultural groups, and environmental organizations to create destination-specific offerings that align with wellness tourism trends (Destination BC 2023)1. The goal is to design travel not only as an escape but as a structured opportunity for personal renewal.
The Science Behind Travel’s Mental Health Benefits
Scientific research increasingly supports the idea that travel can reduce psychological stress and improve emotional health. A study published in the journal *Tourism Management* found that leisure travel significantly reduces perceived stress and contributes to long-term life satisfaction by offering psychological detachment from daily routines (Chen and Petrick 2013)2. Travelers report improved mood, increased energy, and a greater sense of purpose after a meaningful trip, particularly when that travel includes exposure to nature or new cultural experiences.
Another study by the U.S. Travel Association found that 86 percent of Americans reported feeling happier after traveling, with 94 percent identifying travel as a way to relieve stress and anxiety (U.S. Travel Association 2022)3. These findings are particularly relevant as municipalities explore strategies to support community mental health. By positioning tourism as a wellness tool, local governments can address broader societal challenges such as burnout, social isolation, and depression through destination planning and visitor programming.
Leveraging Nature-Based Tourism for Stress Reduction
Nature-based tourism offers a particularly effective path to stress relief. Studies show that time spent in natural environments can reduce cortisol levels, lower blood pressure, and enhance cognitive function (Bratman et al. 2019)4. Municipalities with access to parks, forests, lakes, or coastal areas can promote these features through wellness-centric itineraries that emphasize outdoor recreation and ecological engagement. Activities such as hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, or even silent walking tours can be designed to create calming, immersive experiences for visitors seeking therapeutic benefits.
For example, Finland’s tourism strategy emphasizes “forest happiness,” encouraging visitors to engage in nature walks and mindfulness exercises in wooded areas. These experiences are supported by infrastructure investments such as well-maintained trails, informational signage, and partnerships with local wellness providers. Municipalities in other regions can adopt a similar approach by developing nature-based tourism assets that cater to both visitors and residents, enhancing the overall well-being of the community while boosting local tourism revenue (Visit Finland 2021)5.
Creating Inclusive Wellness Travel Opportunities
For tourism to truly serve as a form of therapy, it must be accessible and inclusive. Many wellness travel offerings have historically catered to high-income travelers, limiting their impact on broader public health. Municipal tourism planners can address this by prioritizing affordability, accessibility, and cultural relevance in their programming. This includes offering sliding-scale pricing for wellness events, ensuring transit access to parks and nature sites, and developing multilingual materials to serve diverse populations.
In Austin, Texas, the Convention and Visitors Bureau has partnered with local nonprofits to offer free or low-cost wellness experiences in city parks, such as tai chi sessions, guided meditation, and outdoor art therapy. These initiatives are designed to welcome underserved communities into spaces traditionally dominated by affluent tourists. By embedding wellness travel into the broader fabric of civic life, municipalities can ensure that the mental health benefits of tourism extend beyond visitors to support the well-being of local residents as well (Austin CVB 2022)6.
Encouraging Self-Discovery Through Cultural Immersion
Travel fosters personal growth when it incorporates meaningful cultural experiences. Engaging with new languages, customs, and histories can challenge assumptions, build empathy, and prompt self-reflection. According to a study by the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, individuals who spent extended time abroad demonstrated greater creativity, adaptability, and a clearer sense of self (Maddux and Galinsky 2009)7. Municipalities with unique cultural assets can leverage these insights by promoting immersive experiences such as homestays, community tours, and local storytelling sessions that foster emotional engagement.
For example, the City of Santa Fe, New Mexico, has invested in cultural tourism programming that highlights Indigenous heritage, culinary traditions, and artisan crafts. These experiences are designed not only for entertainment but for introspection and connection. Visitors often leave with a renewed perspective and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. By framing cultural tourism as a pathway to self-discovery, municipal tourism offices can attract travelers seeking transformation rather than simple recreation.
Integrating Wellness Travel into Municipal Planning
To maximize the benefits of therapeutic travel, municipalities need to integrate wellness tourism into broader strategic plans. This includes zoning for wellness-focused developments, investing in infrastructure that supports restorative travel (such as bike paths, quiet parks, or retreat centers), and training tourism staff in trauma-informed hospitality practices. Cities like Boulder, Colorado, have incorporated wellness objectives into their tourism master plans, identifying specific goals for visitor well-being alongside economic performance metrics (City of Boulder 2021)8.
Such planning frameworks provide a roadmap for aligning tourism with public health, sustainability, and community engagement. Municipalities can also establish advisory councils that include mental health professionals, tourism operators, and local residents to co-design wellness experiences that are both authentic and impactful. These efforts ensure that travel serves not just as a product to market, but as a vital service that contributes to individual and community flourishing.
Fostering Resilience in Local Communities Through Wellness Tourism
Wellness tourism doesn't only benefit travelers; it can also strengthen local communities by creating jobs, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering pride of place. For example, when municipalities support local wellness providers, artisans, and guides, they help diversify the local economy and reduce reliance on extractive or seasonal tourism models. This creates more stable employment and encourages the development of small businesses focused on health, sustainability, and creativity.
In Sedona, Arizona, the city has embraced wellness tourism as a core economic development strategy, supporting local yoga instructors, massage therapists, and outdoor guides through business licensing, promotional campaigns, and infrastructure investments. This approach has helped the community weather economic fluctuations while maintaining a strong identity as a destination for healing and reflection (Sedona Chamber of Commerce 2022)9. Municipal governments can replicate this model by identifying and nurturing local wellness assets that align with their destination’s unique character.
Conclusion: Making Travel a Catalyst for Well-Being
As stress-related illnesses continue to rise globally, travel offers a practical and accessible form of therapy that municipalities can actively support. By curating experiences that prioritize mental health, encouraging nature immersion, and promoting cultural connection, local governments can transform tourism into a tool for public well-being. This requires thoughtful planning, inclusive design, and partnerships that bridge health, culture, and economic development.
For municipal practitioners, the opportunity lies in reimagining the visitor experience as one that heals, restores, and inspires. With the right strategies, tourism can help individuals move from stress to serenity, while also building more resilient and vibrant communities. By embedding wellness into tourism policy and practice, municipalities can meet both the emotional needs of travelers and the long-term goals of their destination development plans.
Bibliography
Destination BC. "Indigenous Tourism Strategy 2023." Accessed May 15, 2024. https://www.destinationbc.ca.
Chen, Po-Ju, and James F. Petrick. "Health and Wellness Benefits of Travel Experiences." *Tourism Management* 36 (2013): 293-306.
U.S. Travel Association. "Travel Improves Mental Health and Happiness." Last modified 2022. https://www.ustravel.org.
Bratman, Gregory N., et al. "Nature and Mental Health: An Ecosystem Service Perspective." *Science Advances* 5, no. 7 (2019): eaax0903.
Visit Finland. "Sustainable Travel Finland Program." Accessed May 15, 2024. https://www.visitfinland.com.
Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Wellness in the City." Accessed April 10, 2024. https://www.austintexas.org.
Maddux, William W., and Adam D. Galinsky. "Cultural Borders and Mental Barriers: The Relationship Between Living Abroad and Creativity." *Journal of Personality and Social Psychology* 96, no. 5 (2009): 1047-1061.
City of Boulder. "Tourism Master Plan 2021-2026." Accessed March 20, 2024. https://bouldercolorado.gov.
Sedona Chamber of Commerce. "Sustainable Tourism Plan Update." Accessed March 15, 2024. https://sedonachamber.com.
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ABOUT THE ROLE Correctional Health Services in Phoenix, Arizona, is seeking a Board Eligible/Board Certified (BE/BC) psychiatrist to work within an interdisciplinary team. This role provides integrated health care to incarcerated individuals navigating the judicial system, offering a unique opportunity to make substantial positive changes in the lives of patients, their families, and the community within an industry-leading county jail healthcare system. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Evaluate new admissions to reach a diagnosis and treat identified mental illness - Re-evaluate patients under care to refine diagnosis and treatment as indicated - Prescribe medications following the CHS Pharmacy Formulary - Document evaluation, treatment, and patient interactions clearly and in compliance with licensure and accreditation requirements - Manage patients requiring involuntary treatment, including initiating Court-ordered evaluations and participating in the Psychiatric Medication Review Board - Participate in the Mental Health Interdisciplinary Treatment team and assist in developing Special Needs Treatment Plans - Coordinate with the Forensic Team for patients in forensic programs - Develop psychiatric protocols and clinical practice guidelines appropriate for the correctional setting - Assist with preparation for licensure and accreditation surveys - Maintain licensure, certifications, and other credentialing as indicated MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Three years of experience in psychiatric evaluation and treatment - Doctoral degree in Medicine (MD, DO) - Completed accredited Residency Program in Psychiatry - Current license as a Psychiatrist in the State of Arizona issued by the State of Arizona Medical Board SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to work inside a jail, stand, walk, and bend for extended periods while handling a high volume of work - Position includes day or night shift work, which may include weekends and holidays - Travel or floating to various clinical locations within a 5-mile radius is required - Must be able to respond to emergencies, maintain CPR certification, perform CPR/chest compressions, push medical equipment, climb stairs, and lift patients on a gurney - Must pass a fingerprint background check and maintain MCSO jail access - CPR certification is required upon hire - Physician Dispensing Certificate Registration is required upon hire - Valued qualifications: Experience working with incarcerated individuals, experience with mentally ill patients in an institutional environment, Clozapine REMS certification, and Suboxone waiver SELECTION PROCESS - Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications - Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile - Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for safety-sensitive positions HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application before the application deadline of August 24, 2026 (End Date: August 25, 2026) - For reasonable accommodation during the application process or to perform essential functions under the ADA, contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Maricopa County - Location: 3250 W Lower Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85009 - Job Type: Full time, Unclassified - Department: Correctional Health - Job Requisition ID: JR24139 - Posting Date: 07/24/26 - Application Deadline: 08/24/26
ABOUT THE ROLE Correctional Health Services in Phoenix, Arizona, is seeking an Addictionologist to work within an interdisciplinary team providing integrated health care to incarcerated individuals navigating the judicial system. This role involves leading the development and expansion of Substance Use treatments within the Maricopa County jail setting, offering a unique opportunity to make a substantial positive change in the lives of patients, their families, and the community. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and implement CHS Policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and Clinical Practice Guidelines related to prevention, screening, intervention, and treatment of patients with Substance Use Disorders. - Evaluate patients with addiction disorders and provide evidence-based treatments, including managing withdrawal symptoms and providing Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). - Recognize, evaluate, and treat psychiatric and physical complications of addiction collaboratively with medical, mental health, psychiatric, and re-entry teams. - Manage a caseload of patients with Substance Use Disorders to refine diagnoses and treatments. - Document evaluation, treatment, and patient interactions clearly and in compliance with CHS workflows and accreditation requirements. - Help coordinate the transfer of care of Substance Use Disorder patients back into the community upon release. - Keep abreast of changes in laws regarding illegal substances, prescribing controlled substances, and clinical alternatives to criminal prosecution. - Provide guidance, training, and consultation related to Substance Use disorders for Addiction team members, CHS clinical staff, administration, MCSO staff, and county leadership. - Maintain licensure, certifications, and other credentialing as indicated. - Assist CHS with preparation for licensure and accreditation surveys. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Doctoral degree in Medicine (MD or DO). - Completed an accredited Residency Program in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, or other accredited Residency Program. - Addiction certification by the American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM), American Osteopathic Association (AOA), American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), or American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM), or equivalent. - OR five or more years of working with a strong focus on Addiction Medicine may substitute for certification. - OR completion of a Fellowship in addiction medicine and two years of experience practicing in addiction medicine or direct care may substitute for certification. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to work inside a jail and stand, walk, and bend for extended periods while handling a high volume of work and adapting to frequent changes. - Position includes day or night shift work, which may include weekends and holidays. - Traveling or floating to various clinical locations within a 5-mile radius is required. - Must be able to respond to emergencies, maintain CPR certification, perform CPR/chest compressions, push medical equipment, climb stairs, and lift patients on a gurney. - Must pass a fingerprint background check and maintain MCSO jail access. - Valid, unrestricted license to practice medicine issued by the Arizona Medical Board (or ability to obtain an Arizona license) required upon hire. - Current CPR Certification required upon hire. - Current DEA Certification required upon hire. - Current Controlled Substance Dispensing License required upon hire. SELECTION PROCESS - Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications. - Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile. - Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive positions. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the Maricopa County Workday portal. - For reasonable accommodations during the application process under the ADA, contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full time, Unclassified - Department: Correctional Health - Location: 3250 W Lower Buckeye Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85009 - Posting Date: 07/27/2026 - Application Deadline: 09/11/2026 - Employer: Maricopa County - Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, exceptional work-life balance, growth opportunities, low-cost high-value healthcare, child care benefits (Maricopa County Kids Club), paid vacation, sick time, parental leave, extensive wellness program with incentives, and enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System with a 100% employer match on Day 1.
ABOUT THE ROLE This is an on-call, part-time, hourly role conducting virtual appeal hearings for the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE). Based on evidence and testimony, the Hearings Officer will draft recommended decisions for the Board of Public Health and Environment. On average, this role involves 6 to 10 hours of work per month, or the equivalent of one hearing, though this may increase depending on performance, availability, and case volume. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Take evidence and sworn testimony to establish case facts, facilitate direct and cross-examination, rule on motions and objections, and maintain order and professionalism during public hearings. - Manage pre-hearing conferences to control the docket, manage information exchange, evaluate briefs and objections, consider stipulated evidence or expert witness testimony, manage discovery issues, and rule on preliminary motions. - Meet with municipal officials, appellants, representatives, or community members to explain rights and obligations, and discuss hearing rules and procedures. - Write timely, thoughtful, and well-crafted recommended decisions that properly record evidence, comply with standard formats, and reflect excellent writing skills. - Perform other duties as they may arise. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Education: Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree or Bachelor of Laws Degree. No substitution of experience for education is permitted. - Experience: Three years of experience as an attorney at law. - License/Certifications: Requires admission by the Supreme Court to practice law in Colorado at the time of application. Licenses and certifications must be kept current as a condition of employment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Experience as an Administrative Hearing Officer (e.g., Career Service Hearings, City Agency Hearings, tax hearings, public health hearings) is highly desired. - Knowledge of or experience with enforcement practices and processes. - Familiarity with Denver’s Municipal Code. - Ability to remain impartial and neutral. - Sensitivity to diversity of constituencies, with the ability to be mindful, courteous, and respectful to hearing participants. - Must have valid work authorization that does not require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the U.S. SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be reviewed based on the submitted cover letter and resume to assess alignment with the required qualifications and ideal candidate characteristics. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit an online application before the deadline. 2. Upload a cover letter detailing relevant experience to the Resume/CV section on the My Experience tab. 3. Upload a current resume to the Resume/CV section on the My Experience tab. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City and County of Denver - Department: Department of Public Health and Environment - Location: Downtown Denver (Remote-based, with occasional in-person hearings at Wellington Webb Municipal Building, 201 W. Colfax Avenue) - Job Type: Part-time, On-call, Hourly - Job Profile: CL2333 Hearing Officer Hourly - Job Requisition ID: R0082076 - Closing Date: August 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. - Redeployment: Employees may be re-deployed to support core city functions during a citywide emergency declared by the Mayor.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Animal Care and Control Director provides executive-level leadership and strategic direction for all programs and operations within Charlotte Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control. Reporting to the General Services Director and Deputy Director, this role ensures the welfare and humane treatment of animals while advancing public health and safety. The Director oversees animal control enforcement, shelter operations, veterinary clinical services, community outreach, and public education, leading a diverse team of professionals to deliver compassionate care and effective services. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for all functions of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control - Develop and implement strategies to promote responsible pet ownership, control stray populations, and increase live-release rates - Develop, manage, and recommend the division budget, authorize expenditures, and approve budgets of direct reports - Serve as Administrative Hearing Officer for appeals regarding dangerous dog declarations, nuisance declarations, enforcement orders, and civil citations - Serve as the Mecklenburg County Dog Warden in cooperation with the Mecklenburg County Health Department - Plan, direct, and evaluate work procedures for the enforcement of state and local animal laws - Oversee humane shelter operations, ensuring proper protocols for animal handling, housing, and euthanasia - Direct and maintain all necessary licenses for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Services Clinic - Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to subordinate managers and staff - Identify and respond to community concerns, evaluating the adequacy of existing services and developing new programs as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's Degree with major course work in zoology, animal husbandry, veterinary science, or a related field (Master's Degree preferred) - A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in a municipal, public sector, or nonprofit animal welfare environment - A minimum of five (5) years of experience in a supervisory or management capacity - Valid North Carolina or South Carolina Driver's License - Preferred: Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) credential SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Certification requirements for chemical immobilization - Completion of course requirements as required by the State for Cruelty Investigators - Ability to work in disagreeable conditions, continuously exposed to noise, intermittent standing, walking, and occasional pushing, carrying, or lifting - Must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination SELECTION PROCESS - Final candidates are subject to a comprehensive background check, including reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal conviction record check, and applicable credit history, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records checks - Candidates may be asked to take a skills test and/or participate in other assessments during the selection process - All background checks and screenings must comply with federal and state statutes, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the official City of Charlotte careers portal before the closing date - Self-service application kiosks are available at the Human Resources Department lobby: 700 East 4th Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28202 (Open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST, excluding official City holidays) - For questions about the application or hiring process, email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us - To request reasonable accommodations, fill out the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or call 704.336.4120 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Charlotte - Department: General Services Department - Job Type: Full time - Job Requisition ID: JR104197 - Date Opened: Tuesday, July 21, 2026 - Close Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 12:00 AM - Location: Animal Control, Charlotte, NC - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package available to eligible employees (details available on the City of Charlotte website)
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Houston Health Department is seeking a Senior Public Health Dentist to supervise the development, implementation, evaluation, and coordination of dental programs at assigned health clinics. This role combines administrative supervision with the performance of professional chairside dental services to ensure high-quality oral health care for the community. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Supervise the day-to-day operations of assigned dental clinic(s), including personnel, supplies, equipment, dental laboratory, and policies/procedures. - Perform professional chairside dental procedures and advise patients on preventive and restorative dental care. - Participate in community outreach programs, health fairs, and other dental health initiatives. - Evaluate and recommend improvements in operational and administrative procedures, supplies, and equipment to enhance patient care. - Maintain optimum clinic productivity and efficiency. - Collect, report, and evaluate utilization data. - Assure the quality of services rendered. - Work at more than one clinic location as required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Doctoral degree in Dentistry from an accredited dental school. - Two (2) years of experience in chairside dentistry within the past five (5) years. - Valid license to practice dentistry in the State of Texas and a current annual registration certificate. - Preferred qualifications: At least 3 years of chairside dentistry, at least 1 year working with children and senior citizens, at least 1 year of experience supervising a dental staff, and Spanish language proficiency. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - This is a Safety Impact Position subject to random drug testing. - All new hires and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test, physical examination, and verification of information provided. - Requires the ability to make closely coordinated eye/hand movements within fine tolerances. - Work schedule: Monday 8am-5pm, Tuesday - Friday 7am-4pm (subject to change; may include weekends and holidays as needed). - Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants who possess the necessary qualifications. SELECTION PROCESS - No selection or skills tests are required. - Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact candidates directly if they are selected to advance in the recruitment process. HOW TO APPLY - Only online applications will be accepted and must be submitted at www.houstontx.gov during the active posting period. - To view detailed application status, log in to your online profile at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-4888. - For special services or accommodations, call 832-393-4888 (TTY 7-1-1). - For login assistance or technical support, call 855-524-5627. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Houston - Department: Houston Health Department, Public Health Services, Bureau of Oral Health - Location: 8000 N. Stadium / Various clinic locations - Job Type: Full Time - Job Number: 39185 - Opening Date: 07/24/2026 - Closing Date: 08/24/2026 11:59 PM Central - The City of Houston is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment.
ABOUT THE ROLE This full-time position is part of the City Attorney's Office and is responsible for providing comprehensive legal services and representation to the Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and City Departments, specifically on matters involving litigation against the City. The role is physically located at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center. The final job title and classification will be determined by the experience and qualifications of the selected candidate. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as legal counsel to the Finance Department, Risk Division - Provide advice and counsel on day-to-day employment-related matters, including hiring, termination, discrimination, retaliation, compensation, benefits, leaves of absence, and employee investigations - Collaborate with the litigation team and work closely with the litigation supervising attorney - Litigate, monitor, and manage pending moderate to complex litigation, including cases assigned to outside counsel - Represent the City in pending litigation, administrative board hearings, and appeals in federal and state courts - Prepare pleadings, statements, memoranda, and briefs; draft and negotiate settlements; and manage discovery, including depositions - Appear and defend the City in court as required, including at hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials - Conduct direct settlement negotiations with opposing attorneys - Stay abreast of relevant law, document management tools, and litigation and trial-related technology - Partner with other attorneys in hearings, trial preparation, and during trial - Identify and research issues within the complex operational, business, policy, and legal framework of the City - Analyze matters and provide accurate, timely, and sound legal advice and opinions to other attorneys and City staff - Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws specific to municipalities MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Juris Doctorate degree from an ABA accredited law school - Current license to practice law in North Carolina - Minimum of five (5) years of relevant work experience as a practicing attorney - Knowledge of constitutional, federal, state, and local laws affecting municipal government employers - Prior litigation experience with federal and state courts, including experience litigating before administrative and quasi-judicial boards and commissions - Knowledge of local rules, civil procedures, and rules of evidence - Ability to master new material quickly, manage a diverse legal portfolio, and handle a fast-paced environment - Strong attention to detail and excellent problem-solving, research, and writing skills - Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, colleagues, the public, elected and appointed officials, and stakeholders SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination - Subject to a comprehensive background check, which may include reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal conviction record checks, credit history checks, sex offender registry checks, and motor vehicle records checks - Background checks must comply with federal and state statutes, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates may be asked to take a skills test and/or participate in other assessments during the selection process - Final candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination - Comprehensive background checks will be conducted on final internal or external candidates prior to employment HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the City of Charlotte careers portal - Self-service application kiosks are available at the City of Charlotte Human Resources Department lobby, located at 700 East 4th Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28202 - Kiosk hours are Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EST), excluding official City holidays - For questions about the application or hiring process, email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us - Reasonable accommodations can be requested by filling out the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or calling 704.336.4120 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Charlotte - Job Requisition ID: JR103530 - Department: City Attorney Department - Job Type: Full time - Location: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, Charlotte, NC - Date Opened: Tuesday, July 21, 2026 - Close Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 12:00 AM - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package provided to eligible employees - Workplace Policy: Drug and alcohol-free workplace; Equal Opportunity Employer
ABOUT THE ROLE The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency is seeking exceptionally qualified individuals for the position of HHSA Emergency Preparedness and Security Coordinator. This is an Unclassified Management position, with the actual job class being Group Program Manager. The role involves leading emergency preparedness, security coordination, and cross-functional project management within the Agency Executive Office. The County embraces a vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future, valuing integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead or coordinate emergency preparedness and response activities, including continuity planning (COOP), site evacuation planning (SEP), or incident coordination. - Serve as the primary point-of-contact for security matters, coordinating with multiple internal and external partners. - Identify security vulnerabilities, collaborate with stakeholders to address them, and ensure follow-through on corrective actions. - Manage complex, cross-functional projects and support special assignments during emergency or high-priority operational needs. - Lead or support multidisciplinary projects or emergency activations, ensuring effective coordination and outcomes. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Three (3) years of experience demonstrating the ability to perform the essential functions of the classification, AND a bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university (or certified foreign studies equivalency). - OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as stated above. - A master's or doctoral degree from an accredited U.S. college or university (or certified foreign studies equivalency) may substitute for up to one (1) year of the required experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Unclassified Service: Persons in this role do not accrue tenure and serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority. - Disaster Service Worker: Under California Government Code Sections 3100-3109, all public employees are designated as disaster service workers and must participate in assigned disaster service activities. - Blind Applicant Screening: Personally identifiable information (name, phone number, address, gender, age, race) will be hidden to ensure a fair and equitable selection process. - Preferred training in Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS), Incident Command System (ICS), or National Incident Management System (NIMS). SELECTION PROCESS - Applications undergo Blind Applicant Screening to remove bias. - Evaluation is based on the Work Experience section and Supplemental Questionnaire responses. - The most highly qualified candidates, based on evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application via the County of San Diego GovernmentJobs portal before the closing date. - Clearly detail experience meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section. - Attach a current resume in the ATTACHMENTS section (must include degrees held, employment history, dates of service, position titles, responsibilities, and positions supervised). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application work history or supplemental questionnaire. - Attach a copy of your bachelor's and/or master's degree, transcripts, completion letter, or foreign studies equivalency certificate if using education to qualify. - Closing Date: August 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Number: 26031807UHHSA - Location: County of San Diego, CA - Job Type: Regular - Full time - Department: Health and Human Services Agency - Division: Agency Executive Office - Opening Date: July 28, 2026 - Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions on a case-by-case basis.
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