Division Chief

Austin Energy; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Division Chief to lead a dynamic team within the City of Austin Law Department. This pivotal role involves overseeing a team of attorneys and managing a diverse range of legal matters, including civil litigation and municipal law. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership and communication skills, with a proven track record in legal practice. Enjoy a hybrid work environment that promotes work-life balance while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to human rights and the well-being of its citizens.

Benefits

Medical Benefits

Paid Leave

Retirement Plan

Training Opportunities

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school with five years of attorney experience.
• Member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to management and departments.
• Supervise staff and manage complex legal matters.
• Draft legal documents and negotiate with stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Communication Skills

Legal Research

Negotiation

Analytical Skills

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Document Management Systems

Job description

Division Chief

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply for this Job link/button.

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Position Information

Posting Title: Division Chief

Job Requisition Number: COA093624

Position Number: 100816

Job Type: Full-Time

Division Name: City Attorney

Minimum Qualifications

• Education and/or Equivalent Experience: Graduation from an accredited school of law plus five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney with a minimum of three (3) years experience in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Licenses or Certifications: Member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.

Notes to Applicants

We are seeking an energetic, self-motivated individual licensed to practice law in Texas and in good standing with the Texas State Bar to fill a full-time division chief position in the City of Austin Law Department.

The Law Department provides a wide range of professional legal services related to litigation matters and municipal government operations. Attorneys directly interface with the client, conduct legal research, prepare legal documents, appear in court at all levels, and attend meetings of the governing body.

Litigation Division

The Division Chief will report to the City Attorney and Deputy City Attorney and would manage a division with approximately 12 attorneys, 11 secretaries and paralegals, and two claims investigators who investigate and process approximately 700 claims against the City per year.

The Litigation Division defends the City of Austin and its employees in all civil litigation cases in state and federal court. The main types of cases managed include civil rights, contract disputes, personal injury, employment, and land use matters. The attorneys also have the opportunity to draft amicus briefs. The Division handles filing of affirmative litigation on behalf of the City to enforce the law and protect the health and safety of Austin citizens, initiate legal action to recover damages, enforce City Code, condemn property, collect delinquent taxes, and protect the environment. The Division also assists with nuisance abatement and Fair Housing complaints.

Come work for a governmental entity that cares about human rights and is on the forefront of current issues. You can help make a difference in the lives of people living in Austin.

Working with the City of Austin offers benefits including medical, paid leave, a great retirement plan, training opportunities, and more! The City ranked fourth on Forbes' list of America’s Best Employers 2025.

Work-Life Balance

Enjoy a balanced lifestyle in a city renowned for its quality of life, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

Hybrid Work Environment: The City of Austin Flexible Work Arrangement Program allows employees to establish hybrid work arrangements, potentially teleworking up to 60% of the week. Schedules are subject to change based on department needs.

For more information, click here.

Application Instructions

• Provide detailed employment history, including all relevant jobs, titles, and dates.
• A complete employment application is required; a resume is mandatory but does not replace the application.
• Include contact information for previous employers.
• A cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience is required.

Top Candidate Requirements

• Proof of education and professional licenses or certifications will be required if selected.
• Military veterans must provide a copy of their DD-214 Member 4 page prior to confirming a start date.

Pay Range and Hours

Pay is commensurate with experience. Hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Telework may be available after an initial training period.

Application Deadline

05/29/2025

Type of Posting

External

Department

Law

Location

301 West 2nd Street, 4th Floor, Austin, TX 78701

Preferred Qualifications

• Leadership style based on team building, collaboration, and facilitation.
• Strong communication skills, including oral presentations and written clarity.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Proactive in taking on opportunities and challenges with energy and urgency.
• Respectful and sensitive in interactions with diverse groups.
• Ability to analyze issues and propose multiple solutions.
• Sound judgment and technical skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office and document management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to management, council, and departments.
• Compile data for reports and estimates.
• Research and coordinate legal information.
• Negotiate with citizens, businesses, and attorneys.
• Draft legal documents and opinions.
• Handle complex legal matters requiring experience.
• Supervise staff, including hiring, training, and evaluations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of judicial procedures, evidence, civil and criminal law, and municipal law.
• Supervisory and managerial techniques.
• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to establish good working relationships.

Additional Information

This position does not require a Criminal Background Investigation. The City of Austin is committed to ADA compliance and equal employment opportunity.

Supplemental Questions

Required questions include confirming minimum qualifications, licensing, management experience, caseload management, and experience with government entities. Open-ended questions ask for descriptions of management experience, problem-solving capabilities, and legal project management.

Documents

• Required: Resume, Cover Letter
• Optional: Other documents