Senior Deputy General Counsel

Seattle Housing Authority; Washington; On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) seeks a Senior Deputy General Counsel to lead legal services across SHA programs. Working under the General Counsel, you will provide counsel, guidance, and strategic recommendations, and oversee litigation, contract review, and staff development.

You will handle real estate, bonds, tax credit development, and procurement matters; advise on landlord-tenant issues and federal housing programs; and stand in for the General Counsel as needed.

Qualifications

• Requires JD from an accredited law school.
• Active WA State Bar in good standing is required.
• Seven+ years of progressive legal experience in relevant sectors.

Responsibilities

• Advise SHA programs on real estate, bonds, tax credits, and procurement.
• Represent SHA in court and hearings, and prepare legal documents.
• Supervise and train staff; act as back-up to General Counsel.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal laws; provide risk assessments.
• Manage complex matters with no established precedent; provide opinions.

Skills

Legal analysis

Contract drafting

Litigation

Public sector law

Real estate law

Regulatory compliance

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

WA Bar admission

Job description

The Organization:

The Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) is a mission-driven leader in affordable housing, headquartered on Elliott Avenue West with sweeping views of Elliott Bay and the Puget Sound. With additional field offices across Seattle, we’re committed to expanding housing opportunities, strengthening communities, and supporting a workplace where people grow and thrive.

The position:

We’re looking for a Senior Deputy General Counsel to join our team! This role is perfect for someone who can work under the direction of the General Counsel and provide legal counsel, guidance, and recommendations on all SHA programs and activities. This role represents SHA in court, administrative hearings, and alternative dispute resolution proceedings; prepares a wide range of legal documents; and oversees, trains, and evaluates assigned staff. The Senior Deputy General Counsel also serves as the designated back‑up to the General Counsel and must be prepared to assume the responsibilities of the General Counsel in their absence.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist the General Counsel in providing comprehensive legal services and representation to SHA and its employees.
• Focus on serving departments with real estate matters, bond issues, tax credit development, purchasing and procurement issues, and contracts or agreements.
• Serve as acting General Counsel in the absence of the General Counsel.
• Handle highly complex legal matters, including issues with no established legal precedent.
• Advise on SHA programs, low-income housing operations, and federally funded housing voucher programs.
• Address landlord-tenant matters, including unlawful detainer litigation, termination notices, non-payment issues, and compliance with state, local, and federal law.
• Represent SHA in court and administrative hearings.
• Prepare legal documents, conduct legal research, and perform interviews necessary for litigation and case preparation.
• Advise and represent staff in matters involving fraudulent activities related to vouchers, HAP contracts, and employee misconduct, including drafting documents for fund recovery.
• Respond to complaints and civil rights matters.
• Demonstrate analytical and legal research skills with the ability to provide clear, well-reasoned legal opinions.
• Demonstrate proficiency advising on procurement, purchasing, public financing, tax-credit properties, LLC structures, and other finance-related legal matters.
• Prepare, review, and revise contracts, MOUs, letters of agreement, interlocal agreements, and other legal documents.
• Supervise, evaluate and provide training to staff.

Qualifications:

• Graduated from an accredited law school
• Active Washington State Bar Association membership and be in good standing with WSBA
• At least seven years of progressive professional legal experience
• Strong knowledge of laws and regulations related to SHA programs, including the United States Code, HUD regulations, EEOC regulations, the Revised Code of Washington and the Washington State Administrative Code
• Strong legal analysis and research skills
• Strong knowledge and experience in the areas of real estate, public bonds, tax credit development, and federal purchasing and procurement regulations
• Knowledge of court and administrative procedures, and the ability to demonstrate strong advocacy skills
• Excellent legal writing skills, and experience preparing legal documents such as pleadings, contracts, and leases
• Strong record‑keeping and documentation skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with a wide variety of clients, as well as a documented history of working with tact and professional courtesy
• Effective communication skills, both verbally and in writing
• Experience establishing and maintaining cooperative and effective working relationships with others
• The ability to learn and adapt to new technology systems and tools
• The ability to independently plan and organize work, meeting all schedules and timelines

Why Should You Apply?

Our Culture:

SHA offers a supportive, energetic workplace where collaboration and growth thrive. Our talented team has helped make us a nationally recognized leader in affordable housing and community development.

• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Development

Our Commitment to Equity

SHA values your unique background and perspective - we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every listed qualification. Learn more in our diversity and application equity statement.