NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES ATTORNEY

Applications accepted from:  ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Job Classification: Assistant City Attorney I to Senior Assistant City Attorney II
Section: Neighborhood Services
Reporting Location:  900 BAGBY

Workdays & Hours:  MONDAY – FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM*   *Subject to Change

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The City of Houston Legal Department strives to provide the highest quality municipal legal services to the City, its elected and appointed officials, and its employees in the most efficient manner feasible through adherence to the following guiding principles:

• Quality & Service – Achieving high customer satisfaction as judged by our clients.
• Partnership & Teamwork – Working cooperatively internally and with our clients to achieve the City's goals.
• Integrity & Candor – Acting with a commitment to honesty and ethical behavior.
• Dignity & Diversity – Demonstrating esteem for the worth of each individual.
• Innovation & Imagination – Seeking novel and creative approaches to achieving the City's objectives.

Composed of approximately 100 of Houston's finest attorneys working in 10 legal practice sections, the OCA handles personal injury, commercial and civil rights litigation, major commercial and real estate transactions, and a diverse array of human resources, labor and employment matters, while also counseling the municipal corporation on economic development, constitutional, election matters, ethics and quality of life matters, and preparing City ordinances governing Houston and its citizens.

Every member of the OCA is committed to "Service Through Law."

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The City of Houston is seeking a skilled and community-oriented Attorney to join its Neighborhood Services team. This role focuses on supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Houston’s neighborhoods through legal enforcement, ordinance interpretation, code compliance, and collaboration with community partners. 

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to supporting safe, vibrant, and resilient neighborhoods as a proactive problem-solver with strong communication skills and a passion for public service.  The Neighborhood Services Section seeks analytical and resourceful attorneys who can manage a diverse caseload while providing sound legal guidance.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide legal counsel and representation related to neighborhood protection, code enforcement, nuisance abatement, dangerous buildings, and related municipal matters.
• Draft, review, and interpret ordinances, legal opinions, contracts, and other municipal documents.
• Represent the City in administrative hearings, municipal court, and state court as needed.
• Work closely with departments such as Public Works, Police, Planning, and Administrative and Regulatory Affairs to address neighborhood issues.
• Coordinate with community organizations, civic groups, and elected officials on matters impacting neighborhood health and safety.
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda, reports, and recommendations for City leadership.
• Support strategic initiatives related to blight reduction, public safety, regulatory compliance, and neighborhood revitalization efforts.

WORKING CONDITIONS 

This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.