Deputy City Attorney - Health & Human Services Team

Position Summary

San Francisco operates one of the most comprehensive public health and human services systems in the country. Our team advises policymakers, department leaders, clinicians, social services professionals, and commissions on high‑stakes operational, regulatory, and policy matters that directly affect service delivery and public health outcomes.

The work is fast‑paced, varied, and consequential. Attorneys regularly address issues involving law, medicine, ethics, privacy, and government operations, and serve as trusted advisors during periods of operational and public scrutiny. This role provides the opportunity to build a sophisticated public law practice while meaningfully impacting the lives of San Franciscans.

Duties and Responsibilities

Deputy City Attorneys on this team advise on complex legal and operational issues, develop practical solutions, and support major public initiatives. Responsibilities include:

• Reviewing and negotiating contracts, procurements, and RFPs
• Advising departments on legal and policy issues involving health care, public health, social services, homelessness systems, and government operations
• Providing real‑time guidance on regulatory, compliance, and operational matters affecting hospitals, clinics, behavioral health programs, and public benefit systems
• Counseling clients on risk, statutory interpretation, and administrative decision‑making
• Interpreting federal, state, and local laws governing health care systems, human services programs, privacy, and public funding
• Advising on public records, open government, and government ethics requirements
• Developing subject‑matter expertise in areas central to City governance and service delivery
• Advising on health care operations, compliance, HIPAA, and related privacy laws

Qualifications and Prior Experience

The ideal candidate brings strong public contracting experience, particularly in healthcare, along with sound legal judgment, collaboration skills, and a commitment to public service.

Minimum Qualifications: Licensed to practice law in California.