City Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

THE CITY OF PORTALES, NEW MEXICO
POSITION POSTING #2026-03 POSITION:                  CITY ATTORNEY
STATUS:                     EXEMPT
REPORTS TO:            MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL/CITYMANAGER
FOR DAILY OPERATIONS 
SHIFT:                          FT SALARY / 40 HOURS PER WEEK
SALARY:                     $100,000 - $125,000 ANNUALLY (DOQ)  

 
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The City Attorney serves as the chief legal advisor to the City Council, Mayor and various city departments.  This position is responsible for providing legal guidance, representing the City in legal proceedings before city, state and federal courts and agencies and provides advice to the Mayor, Governing Body, City Manager, and Department Directors on all legal matters of concern to the city. Works closely with and provides legal advice to the City Manager. The City Attorney plays a crucial role in protecting the city’s interests and promoting effective governance.

NOTE: THIS POSITION IS APPROVED BY MAJORITY VOTE OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND APPOINTED BY THE MAYOR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The City Attorney is charged with the following responsibilities:

1. Legal Counsel: Provide legal advice and guidance to city officials, departments, and committees on various issues, including contracts, zoning, land use, and municipal law.
2. Litigation Management: Unless they are provided to the City through the New Mexico Municipal League, to represent the city in legal proceedings, including trials, appeals, and administrative hearings. The City Attorney shall manage outside counsel when necessary.
3. Drafting and Review: Prepare, review, and negotiate contracts, ordinances, resolutions, and other legal documents. Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
4. Policy Development: Assist in the development and implementation of city policies and procedures, ensuring they align with legal standards.
5. Public Engagement: Educate city officials and the public on legal matters affecting the city. Conduct training sessions as needed.
6. Research and Analysis: Stay current on legal developments and trends affecting municipal law. Conduct legal research to support city initiatives.
7. Conflict Resolution: Mediate disputes involving the city, fostering resolution through negotiation and alternative dispute resolution methods.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS: All applicants must meet the following minimum requirements.

1. Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school;
2. Admission to the state bar and in good standing; licensed to practice law in the State of New Mexico.
3. A minimum of 2 years of experience in municipal law or a related field.
4. A Strong Knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations affecting municipalities.
5. Excellent analytical, research and writing skills.
6. A strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with the City Council, the City Manager and other employees, other agencies, and the general public using tact, courtesy and good judgment.
7. Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. A minimum of 2 years of experience in litigation, governmental planning, zoning, land use, public relations, contracts, tort liability, labor and personnel law and criminal procedures.
2. Familiarity with local government operations and structures.
3. Previous experience working with elected officials and city departments.

HOW TO APPLY Individuals who meet or exceed the criteria set forth above are required to complete an application, a copy of which is attached together with a cover letter and detailed resume. Said documents can be obtained online at PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT Work may involve exposure to potentially hazardous, uncontrollable and life-threatening situations. The City of Portales promotes a drug/alcohol free work environment through the use of random drug testing. WORK SCHEDULE: The Attorney selected will be scheduled 8 hours a day for 5 days a week and available to attend all City Council meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of each month or as otherwise scheduled, the City Attorney shall also be subject to callback or weekends, holidays, as otherwise necessary. Additional time may be required after regular hours. PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

1. The selected attorney must pass a background investigation including work history, criminal records, driving records and other records deemed necessary.
2. The selected attorney must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug screen administered by a City-designated facility.

CONDITIONS OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT:

1. The City Attorney must be in current standing and have a current license to practice law in New Mexico.
2. Candidates must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and insurability in accordance with the City’s insurance carrier.
3. Employees must maintain a source of communications for off duty work related communications.

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT REQUIRED APPLICATION: Position to remain open until filled. The first review will take place February 27th, 2026, weekly reviews thereafter. Applicants must submit required application to Human Resources at City Hall, 1028 West Community Way, Portales, N.M. 88130, online at or through the various online websites where the City of Portales job postings may be found.

The City of Portales is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Workplace.

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