Senior Planning & Development Attorney — Real Estate

City of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Houston's Legal Department seeks a planning and development attorney to handle matters related to Houston planning and development rules, especially in the absence of zoning. The role requires strong drafting and advisory capabilities within a municipal setting.

Reporting to the Legal Department, you will manage complex real estate transactions, participate in commissions, and contribute to diverse litigation and advisory work.

Qualifications

• Requires Doctor of Jurisprudence from an ABA-accredited college of law.
• Active Texas State Bar membership and eligibility for Federal court admission.
• Minimum 8 years of legal experience for Senior Assistant City Attorney I; 13 years for II.
• Preference for planning and development experience, especially in government.
• Excellent drafting, analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage high-level, complex real estate transactions and related matters, including land sales, acquisitions, eminent domain, leases, and title work.
• Handle planning and development issues, including land development regulations, historic preservation, tax increment reinvestment zones, and economic development agreements.
• Attend commission meetings to provide legal advice and guidance.
• Conduct Ethics Workshops annually for multiple commissions (Planning, Archeological, Historic Preservation, Tower, and related boards).

Skills

Legal drafting

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Planning & development experience

Education

Doctor of Jurisprudence

Job description

The City of Houston's Legal Department seeks a planning and development attorney to handle matters related to Houston planning and development rules, especially in the absence of zoning. The role requires strong drafting and advisory capabilities within a municipal setting.

Reporting to the Legal Department, you will manage complex real estate transactions, participate in commissions, and contribute to diverse litigation and advisory work.