Senior Attorney

Are you looking for a different type of state government job? Something with a little more excitement and a more fast‑paced and fluid environment? How about an opportunity to be part of one of the most remarkable transportation projects in California's history? The California High-Speed Rail Authority is a small and dynamic state agency that is looking for employees who are interested in a challenging and rewarding job opportunity. About the Role Under general direction of the Assistant Chief Counsel, the Attorney V works on the most difficult and complex legal assignments. This position studies, interprets, and applies laws, court decisions, and other authorities; provides oral and written advice regarding multifaceted legal issues to staff and executive management; drafts and negotiates complex and significant contracts and agreements; works with broad discretion and independence and is expected to have the highest level of knowledge and expertise in the most complex areas of the law within one or more of the following subject matters: construction, procurements, public works, design/build, infrastructure, contracts, condemnation and inverse condemnation, real property, funding and financing, environmental and land use, personnel/employment, open meetings, public records, conflicts of interest, governance, state legislation, and state and federal laws and regulations. Attorneys at this level are recognized as having an exceptional level of expertise that distinguishes such person in a special field of knowledge and will serve as the Legal Office’s top expert in that field. Work at this level involves innovative theories, practices of law, and specialization in an area of law overseen by or involving the Authority and requires contact with the Legislature, high‑level Governor appointees, constitutional officers, Board members, local officials, and/or the public. This position also works closely with, and directs, private outside counsel and the Attorney General’s Office regarding legal advice and litigation. Qualifications Strong written and oral communication skills. Ability to conduct legal research and writing, sometimes under short deadlines. Experience drafting legal documents such as legislation, regulations, or contracts. Experience practicing law in a governmental setting or advising governmental employees on legal matters. Ability to exercise a high degree of initiative, flexibility, judgment, and confidentiality. Ability to operate independently, but with the judgment to know when to ask for assistance and guidance from a supervisor or colleague. Ability to represent the Authority in dealings with other government agencies and private entities in a way that reflects well on the Authority. Dependable, punctual, excellent attendance. Knowledge of the Authority organization, operations, and relevant policy issues. Ability to prepare correspondence involving inclusion of recommendations for effective courses of action. Exercise good judgment and calm professionalism in all situations. Experience with state functions. Experience as the lead member of a team of attorneys (in‑house or outside counsel). Experience drafting and negotiating contracts. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple clients and priorities. Experience working with a board or other governing body. Ability to present information and advice to executive level staff. Demonstrated knowledge of the legal issues related to large infrastructure projects (particularly transportation projects). Experience researching unique and novel issues of law. Experience weighing legal, technical, and political risks. Equal Opportunity Statement The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation. #J-18808-Ljbffr