General Counsel

Pico California; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 160,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Employer-paid health, vision, and dent

401(k) plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

PICO California is seeking a strategic General Counsel to serve as the organization's primary legal advisor. Reporting to the Deputy Chief of Staff, you will lead legal strategy, compliance, and risk management, with a focus on 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and PAC structures.

The ideal candidate has a JD and California Bar membership with 7–10+ years in nonprofit and tax-exempt law, governance and employment-law experience, and the ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear guidance.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) and active California Bar membership.
• 7–10+ years of legal experience in nonprofit and tax-exempt law.
• Deep knowledge of 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and PAC compliance incl. lobbying.
• Knowledge of California employment law.
• Ability to translate complex legal concepts into actionable guidance.
• Strong judgment, discretion, and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Responsibilities

• Serve as trusted legal partner supporting key decisions with clarity.
• Lead legal strategy and compliance across nonprofit and political activity.
• Advise on governance, board policies, and compliance practices.
• Review contracts and manage outside counsel and inquiries.

Skills

Nonprofit law

Regulatory compliance

Governance advisory

Legal strategy

Employment law

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

California Bar admission

Job description

Background

PICO California is a multi-faith network of 9 local affiliates and 529 member institutions. We organize across 18 counties, 73 cities, 35 school districts, and over 75 percent of California's Senate and Assembly districts. Our Vision is a Moral Economy where all people belong, thrive, and are seen as sacred. Our Vision is a Moral Economy where all people belong, thrive, and are seen as sacred. Our belief is that true change starts with people, their formation, relationships, and collective courage shape a better future.

Join our team

We are seeking a strategic and grounded General Counsel to serve as the organization's primary legal advisor. This role is ideal for someone who understands the intersection of law, advocacy, and social justice and can translate complex legal requirements into clear, practical guidance.

Reporting to the Deputy Chief of Staff, the General Counsel will lead legal strategy, compliance, and risk management, with a strong focus on 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and PAC structures. This role is less about theory and more about real-time problem solving, ensuring the organization can move boldly while staying compliant and protected.

Why Join Us

Meaningful Impact: Contribute to a mission-driven organization positively impacting our community.

Perks and Work-Life Harmony: We recognize the valuable contributions of our staff by offering a comprehensive benefits package and flexible work arrangements. Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond traditional benefits, providing unique perks that promote work-life balance. We strive to create an environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally.

Requirements

What You'll Be Doing:

• Serve as a trusted legal partner, supporting key decisions and ensuring the organization operates with integrity and clarity.
• Lead legal strategy and compliance across all areas of the organization, ensuring alignment with California nonprofit, lobbying, and political activity regulations.
• Advise on governance matters, including Board policies, structures, and compliance practices.
• Oversee legal risk management and identify potential issues early while guiding practical solutions.
• Review and advise on contracts, partnerships, and agreements to ensure alignment with legal standards and organizational priorities.
• Manage outside counsel and support regulatory inquiries, audits, or legal matters as needed.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• Juris Doctor (JD) and active membership in the California State Bar in good standing.
• 7-10+ years of legal experience, including strong expertise in nonprofit and tax-exempt law.
• Deep knowledge of 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and PAC compliance, including lobbying and political activity regulations.
• Understanding of California employment law.
• Experience advising nonprofit or social justice organizations.Ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, actionable guidance.
• Strong judgment, discretion, and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Why This Role Matters:

This role ensures the organization can do bold, impactful work while remaining grounded in strong legal and ethical practices. Your work directly supports the organization’s ability to advance its mission and serve the community with integrity.

Compensation and Benefits

PICO California is committed to diversity in its staff and offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including the flexibility of a hybrid role, 100% employer‑paid health, vision, and dental for staff members and dependents, and a robust 401(k) plan. Generous paid time off, including holidays, to complement our supportive and collaborative culture. This is a two‑year position designed to support key organizational priorities with the possibility of extension. Work from home flexibility in State of California only. Range: $160,000-$190,000.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We provide equal employment opportunities to all staff and applicants for

employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin,

age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by

federal, state, or local laws.

Salary Description

$160,000-$190,000