Assistant City Attorney, Employment | Civil Division

ABOUT THE ROLE The Seattle City Attorney's Office seeks an attorney with experience in employment law and litigation to join the Employment Section. The role involves advising on and litigating legal issues for Seattle's diverse workforce of over 10,000 employees. Attorneys act as generalists in labor and employment, handling all aspects of litigation in state and federal courts and administrative forums, while implementing the City's Race and Social Justice Initiative. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Act as legal counsel to City policy makers, departmental leadership, human resources professionals, and labor negotiators on complex labor and employment matters. - Advise City departments on ADA accommodations, leaves of absence, employee and labor relations, FLSA, EEO investigations, and discrimination claims. - Represent the City in litigation before federal and state courts, administrative agencies, and labor arbitrations. - Manage ediscovery, draft and respond to interrogatories, and handle electronically stored information. - Take and prepare witness testimony for depositions, trials, and arbitrations. - Draft motions for summary judgment, conduct motion practice, mediate cases, and negotiate settlement agreements. - Collaborate with colleagues and clients to align with the City's mission of ending institutionalized racism. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Membership in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association, or licensure in another state with the ability to complete WA membership within four months of an offer. - Expertise in state and federal employment law. - Experience litigating labor and employment matters, including the ability to first-chair complex litigation and appeals. - Experience advising HR professionals, managers, executives, and elected officials on complex employment and labor issues. - Ability to independently manage a portfolio, meet deadlines, and navigate a fast-paced environment. - Ability to develop positive relationships and work efficiently under tight deadlines. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Expertise in traditional labor law is desired. - Experience advising public employers, including public safety clients, is desired. - Experience in applying policies and practices related to equity. SELECTION PROCESS - The position is open to all candidates who meet the minimum qualifications. - The City values diverse perspectives and life experiences, considering applicants regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity, disability, age, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. HOW TO APPLY 1. Complete the online City of Seattle Application at governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle. 2. Attach required documents in PDF, DOC, or DOCX format prior to the closing date. 3. Include a cover letter describing your interest in the position. 4. Include a resume detailing relevant experience. 5. Include a legal writing sample that is less than 10 pages. - Note: Inquiries via email or third-party sites will not be considered unless applied via the Government Jobs site. Contact Law_HR@Seattle.gov for application assistance. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Civil Service Exempt, Regular, Full-time. - Department: Law Department. - Location: Columbia Center, 701 5th Avenue, Suite 2050 Seattle, WA. - Work Schedule: Flexible/Hybrid (currently 3 days in the office, 2 days remote, subject to change). - Closing Date: Continuous. - Benefits: Comprehensive package including vacation, 12 official holidays, 2 floating holidays, sick and paid parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance. Also includes executive leave, merit leave eligibility, and a defined benefits retirement program.