Assistant City Attorney - Environmental Focused

City of Springfield, Missouri; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 71,000 - 163,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage (zero-dollar premiums)

LAGERS pension program

Life/Dental/Cafeteria Plan

Job summary

The City of Springfield is seeking an Assistant City Attorney for Environmental Services to provide advanced legal services in environmental law for a major utility. You will advise on regulations and support operations, permitting, and compliance in collaboration with regulatory agencies.

Open levels (Attorney III–V) depending on qualifications, with pathways to handle enforcement matters, contracts, and project support for Clean Water and Solid Waste programs.

Qualifications

• Juris doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in Missouri or ability to obtain within one year.
• Experience in environmental compliance and public utilities preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advise on water quality, stormwater, wastewater, and solid waste regulations.
• Support utility operations, contracts, enforcement matters and permitting.
• Coordinate with agencies like MDC, EPA and internal staff.

Skills

Environmental law

Public sector law

Education

Law degree

Missouri bar license

Job description

Description

Are you looking for an opportunity to use your legal expertise that will directly impact your community?

Join a Leading Environmental Utility: Assistant City Attorney - Environmental Services

The City of Springfield is seeking an experienced legal professional to serve as an Assistant City Attorney, focusing on the Department of Environmental Services. This is a unique opportunity to practice law in a specialized area that helps shape Springfield’s future through environmental compliance and the legal issues that arise in the day-to-day operation of a public entity.

You will provide advanced legal services for Environmental Services, including Clean Water Services and Solid Waste Management. Responsibilities include advising on regulations related to water quality, stormwater, wastewater, and solid waste, as well as supporting utility operations, infrastructure projects, permitting, regulatory compliance, contracts, enforcement matters, and coordination with operational staff. You will be working directly with agencies such as the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Protection Agency.

This role is ideal for attorneys with a background in environmental law and, most importantly, practical experience with the legal, regulatory, and operational issues involved in running a utility. Springfield’s utilities are recognized for their innovation, award-winning performance, and advanced treatment technologies. You will join a high-performing team that values forward thinking, problem solving, and public service.

This Assistant City Attorney position may be filled at any level (Assistant City Attorney III-V; please see "Functions" below for additional information) dependent on the candidate's qualifications and experience.

About the Law Department For more information about the Law Department,

About the Environmental Services Department For more information about the Environmental Services Department,

Benefits City of Springfield employees enjoy competitive benefits including an Employee Health coverage plan that provides coverage with zero-dollar premiums to employees who work at least 30 hours per week., generous paid leave time, a LAGERS pension program, which is 100% paid by the City and requires no employee contribution., and Life/Dental/Cafeteria Plan options.

Leadership Philosophy The City of Springfield’s leadership culture is grounded in processes, relationships, and trust. Leaders across the organization operate within the principles of The Trust Edge Framework, which emphasizes:

Clarity, Compassion, Character, Competency, Commitment, Connection, Contribution, and Consistency

These principles guide how we work together, build relationships, and serve our community.

This position is open until filled. Applications received by October 12, 2026 are guaranteed review.

Qualifications and Requirements

The minimum requirements for an Assistant City Attorney V are provided below.

• Graduation from an accredited law school;

AND

• Ten years of law experience;

Licensing/Certification

• Must be licensed to practice law by the State of Missouri, or have the ability to obtain licensure within one year of employment.

The minimum requirements for an Assistant City Attorney IV are provided below.

• Graduation from an accredited law school;

AND

• Eight years of legal experience.

Licensing/Certification

• Must be licensed to practice law by the State of Missouri.

The minimum requirements for an Assistant City Attorney III are provided below.

• Graduation from an accredited law school;

AND

• Five years of experience in the practice of law.

Licensing/Certification

• Must be licensed to practice law by the State of Missouri.

Functions

For more information on essential functions and other requirements for the various Assistant City Attorney positions, please see the job descriptions below.

• Assistant City Attorney V
  • Salary: $89,958.75 - $162,624.59
• Assistant City Attorney IV
  • Salary: $76,071.01 - $137,475.31
• Assistant City Attorney III
  • Salary: $70,796.34 - $128,038.77

Other Requirements

The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave. Springfield, MO 65802.

Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment drug testing is required.

All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission. Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.