Assistant County Counsel

Lane County; Salem (OR); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Lane County in Eugene, Oregon, seeks a temporary Assistant County Counsel to support a broad range of County operations, with a significant focus on the Lane County Mental Health Authority and civil-commitment proceedings under ORS 426 and 427.

The role provides legal advice to County departments and may involve drafting contracts, policies, Lane Code and Lane Manual provisions, RFPs, and Board materials, along with trainings and civil matters support.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• Three years of responsible municipal legal counsel or litigation experience (for Assistant County Counsel 2).

Responsibilities

• Provide legal support across Lane County operations, with a significant focus on work involving the Lane County Mental Health Authority.
• Advise County departments on federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and programs; draft and review contracts, policies, Lane Code and Lane Manual provisions, RFPs, and Board materials.
• Offer trainings and support work in government law, public contracting, land use, and other civil matters.

Education

Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school

Job description

Assistant County Counsel 1 - $47.35 - $64.83/hr

Assistant County Counsel 2 - $55.40 - $75.85/hr

About the Position

The Lane County Office of Legal Counsel is seeking a temporary Assistant County Counsel to provide legal support across a broad range of County operations, with a significant focus on work involving the Lane County Mental Health Authority.

This temporary, unclassified professional position is responsible for all aspects of civil commitment proceedings for Lane County, including conducting hearings under ORS Chapter 426 and developmental disability hearings under ORS Chapter 427. This position will also provide legal advice to County departments on a variety of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and programs.

Depending on workload and experience, responsibilities may also include drafting and reviewing contracts, policies, Lane Code and Lane Manual provisions, RFPs, and Board materials; advising County leadership and staff on complex legal matters; providing trainings; and supporting work in areas such as government law, public contracting, land use, and other civil matters.

The position is located in Eugene, Oregon, and may be eligible for a hybrid in-office/telework arrangement in accordance with County policy and with County Counsel approval. The Office of Legal Counsel values collaboration, professional development, and work/life balance.

About the Department

The Lane County Office of Legal Counsel provides legal and risk-related services that support County government operations and help departments carry out their work effectively and in compliance with applicable laws and policies.

The department includes Legal Services, Risk Management, Public Records Requests, and Workers’ Compensation. Together, these functions provide legal guidance, manage risk and claims, support public transparency, and help protect the County’s interests while serving the broader needs of the community.

The Office of Legal Counsel works closely with the Board of County Commissioners, County leadership, departments, and staff on a wide range of legal and operational matters. Its work touches nearly every area of County government, making the department an important partner in responsible, effective public service.

Schedule:

Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm

*This is a non-represented position*

Education and Experience

Assistant County Counsel 1:

• A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• No experience is required.

Assistant County Counsel 2:

In addition to the requirements for the Assistant County Counsel 1:

• Three years of responsible municipal legal counsel or litigation experience.
• Or an equivalent combination of experience and training that will demonstrate the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

Special Requirements:

• Member of the Oregon State Bar at the time of appointment.
• Must be in possession of a valid driver’s license at the time of application if required to drive, and a valid Oregon Driver’s license by the time of appointment.

Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The county will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

Assistant County Counsel 1/2 Classification Details

Selection Process

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lane County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

Strategic Plan

In alignment with Lane County’s Strategic Plan, incumbent(s) will be expected to demonstrate the following core behaviors: Passion to Serve, Driven to Connect, and Focused on Solutions.

The 2025 - 2027 Strategic Plan focuses on the areas that Lane County will pursue as a way to deliver on our vision for the residents of Lane County. To meet these challenges, we know that the basis of our efforts lies in leveraging our people and partnerships to achieve our Strategic Priorities. We also recognize that the quality and commitment of our staff is essential to a shared future where Lane County is the best place in which to live, work, and play.

Veteran Preference Information