Assistant City Attorney I

City of Cedar Rapids, IA; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking an entry-level Assistant City Attorney I to join its Legal Team. This role provides hands-on experience advising city staff and officials on a broad range of municipal law matters.

Ideal candidates hold a Juris Doctor, Iowa license, and strong communication skills, with proficiency in MS Office and a collaborative mindset to work with a diverse community. Monday–Friday 8:00am–5:00pm, full-time employment.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population.

Responsibilities

• Advises and counsels city staff, including department heads, Mayor and City Council on legal matters.
• Drafts ordinances, resolutions, policies, and legal briefs for the City.
• Drafts contracts, real estate documents, and represents the City in negotiations and contracts.
• Provides legal analysis and opinions to City Council and committees.

Skills

Communication skills

Verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Assistant City Attorney I to join our Legal Team. This is an entry-level opportunity ideal for recent law school graduates who have recently passed the Bar Exam and are eager to begin a meaningful career in public service law. This role offers hands‑on experience across a wide range of municipal legal matters while working alongside experienced attorneys in a collaborative and supportive environment.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here.

About the Position

Advises and counsels city staff, including department heads, Mayor and City Council on legal matters. The Assistant City Attorney classifications are distinguished by the complexity and diversity of legal issues assigned.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides legal advice and guidance to the City Manager, City departments, and division heads on the full range of legal issues affecting the City.
• Drafts new and amended ordinances, and other legal documents such as resolutions, policies, procedures, legal memoranda, and legal briefs.
• Drafts contracts, agreements, and real estate documents. Represents the City’s interest in contract negotiations and carries out goals of contracts.
• Provides legal analysis and opinions on a variety of legal questions and acts as legal advisor to the Council and its various committees, commissions, boards, authorities, and City departments.
• Conducts legal research, analysis, drafting, and communication. Assists in various legal matters, including open records requests, open meeting law, policy questions, and other issues. Interprets laws and ordinances and makes recommendations.
• Represents the City in judicial, quasi-judicial, and administrative proceedings, including contested trials and appeals.
• Supports litigation cases involving a wide variety of subject matters including, but not limited to, torts, civil rights, and prosecuting violations of city code. Represents the City in small claims, foreclosures, and affirmative litigation.
• Proactively identifies issues of concern affecting the City.
• Performs related work as required.

Required Education and Experience

• Juris doctor from an accredited law school
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Required Licenses or Certifications

• License to practice law in the state of Iowa

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm