Assistant General Counsel

Sycuan Tribal Government

El Cajon (CA)

On-site

USD 160,000 - 190,000

Full time

14 days+

Application generator

Turn this role into an interview — a resume and cover letter built around what this employer wants.

Get past ATS filters

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health coverage

Retirement options

Generous paid leave

Life and disability insurance

Professional development support

Job summary

A Tribal Government in El Cajon, CA, is seeking an experienced Assistant General Counsel to provide high-impact legal services in support of Tribal self-governance. This role requires a JD from an ABA accredited law school and an active California State Bar membership, with a minimum of 3-7 years of experience in law. Responsibilities include legal consultation for departments, drafting legal documents, and representing the Tribe in various proceedings. A full-time commitment to excellence and sound judgment is essential.

Qualifications

Minimum of 3-7 years of experience as a practicing attorney or in-house counsel.
Preferred emphasis in federal Indian law, tribal courts, torts, contracts, and business management.

Responsibilities

Provide legal services to Tribal officers, directors, employees, and business enterprises.
Research legal issues and advise the Tribal Council.
Draft and analyze Tribal laws and regulations.
Represent the Tribe in judicial and administrative proceedings.

Skills

Knowledge of federal, state, local, and tribal law

Proficiency in reviewing and drafting contracts

Excellent communication skills

Legal writing skills

Research and analytical abilities

Strong organizational skills

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA accredited law school

Active Member of the California State Bar

Job description

Join to apply for the Assistant General Counsel role at Sycuan Tribal Government

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Sycuan Tribal Government provided pay range

This range is provided by Sycuan Tribal Government. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$160,000.00/yr - $190,000.00/yr

Additional compensation types

Annual Bonus

Direct message the job poster from Sycuan Tribal Government

Human Resources Leader | Talent | DEI | Engagement

The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation is seeking a dedicated and experienced Assistant General Counsel to join the Sycuan Legal Department. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this role offers a unique opportunity to provide high-impact legal services in support of Tribal self‑governance, sovereignty, and a diverse portfolio of governmental and enterprise matters. Applicants who are committed to excellence, sound judgment, and practical legal problem‑solving in a fast‑paced environment are encouraged to apply.

This position is onsite in El Cajon, California and is not eligible for remote or hybrid work.

Competitive benefits package including comprehensive health coverage, retirement options, generous paid leave and holiday schedule, life and disability insurance, employee assistance benefits, and professional development support including bar dues and continuing legal education.

Salary Range (DOE): $160,000–$190,000 + bonus

Job Purpose

The Assistant General Counsel will work in the Sycuan Legal Department under the direct supervision of the General Counsel for the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. In collaboration with the General Counsel, the Assistant General Counsel will provide legal services, representation, and advice on matters affecting the Tribal Government and its enterprises; offer guidance and support to Tribal Government and Casino departments; and, as appropriate, provide limited services to individual tribal members.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

(Note: Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at the sole discretion of Sycuan Management at any time. Related, relevant, or direct experiences may be considered in lieu of minimum requirements indicated.)

Provides timely and effective legal services, under the direction of the General Counsel, to Tribal officers, directors, employees, government departments, and business enterprises.
Researches legal issues, prepares analyses, and advises the Tribal Council on policies, codes, ordinances, and actions requiring legal consideration.
Protects and advances the Tribe’s sovereignty, jurisdiction, and authority.
Provides legal consultation and guidance to officers, directors, management, and staff on a wide range of issues including contracts, torts, real property, environmental, land use, gaming, child welfare, taxation, code drafting, tribal court development, intellectual property, employment, litigation, and cultural heritage protection.
Assists in developing strategies on matters involving legislative or regulatory considerations and presents recommendations to the Tribal Council for approval.
Drafts and analyzes Tribal laws, resolutions, ordinances, regulations, policies, notices, and related documents in coordination with Tribal departments and committees.
Prepares, reviews, and negotiates complex contracts, agreements, leases, deeds, briefs, legal protests, dispute resolutions, and other Tribal, state, and federal documents.
Supports and coordinates with specialized outside counsel as needed.
Represents the Tribe and its officials in judicial, legislative, executive, and administrative proceedings before federal, state, and tribal courts.
Assists in the preparation, organization, and maintenance of Legal Department records.
Undertakes special legal projects as assigned by the Tribal Council.
Provides legal review and negotiation support for contracts, vendor agreements, and related transactions.
Attends conferences, educational programs, and training to maintain professional growth and expertise.

Job Specifications

Education and Experience

Must possess a Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA accredited law school.
Must be an Active Member of the California State Bar, in good standing, and licensed to practice law in California.
Must have a minimum of 3-7 years of experience as a practicing attorney or in-house counsel, with a preferred emphasis in federal Indian law, tribal courts, torts, contracts, and business management.

Skills and Knowledge

Strong knowledge of federal, state, local, and tribal law as it relates to tribal government and business activities, preferred.
Proficiency in reviewing, drafting, and interpreting contracts and related legal documents.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners.
Strong legal writing skills, including the preparation of clear and well‑reasoned opinions, memoranda, and correspondence.
Advanced research and analytical abilities to evaluate complex legal issues, brief decision‑makers, and provide practical recommendations.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Must have demonstrated ability to exercise professionalism and maintain confidentiality.
Ability to remain composed and exercise sound judgment under pressure.
Openness to feedback and ability to incorporate constructive criticism.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and electronic calendar management.