Location : Akron, OH
Job Type: Permanent
Job Number: 2026-O-82-Law
Department: Law Department
Division: Civil Division - 400
Opening Date: 11/10/2026
Closing Date: 12/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
DefinitionThe Assistant Director of Law provides a broad range of municipal legal services under the direction and supervision of the Director of Law and the Deputy Director of Law. The position requires the performance of complex legal work including analysis of complicated legal issues, drafting legal opinions and legal documents, and policy review.
Characteristic Work Duties may include but are not limited to the following work. This listing is illustrative and not exhaustive; an employee may perform other related duties as assigned.
- Provides legal advice and representation on matters involving municipal governance, administrative and constitutional law, ethics, public records, open meetings, civilian police oversight, and related federal, state, and local requirements
- Reviews and drafts legal opinions, contracts, local ordinances and resolutions, and policies in compliance with federal, state, and local laws
- Processes and litigates claims against the City, including preparation of answers to complaints, pleadings, depositions, exhibits and related memoranda and papers
- Attends regular and/or special meetings, hearings, public sessions, and other proceedings involving City Council and administrative boards and commissions
- Interacts with City Administration, public officials, law enforcement and safety personnel, and members of the public concerning sensitive or high-profile matters
- Analyzes complex facts and legal issues, exercises sound judgment, communicates clearly in writing and orally, and maintains confidentiality
- Works collaboratively in a multifaceted municipal environment
Minimum QualificationsThis is an unclassified position.
Required: Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school, admission to practice law in Ohio, and good standing with the Supreme Court of Ohio. Demonstrated ability to conduct legal research, analyze complex legal issues, and prepare clear, practical legal opinions and documents. Strong written and oral communication, interpersonal, negotiation, and presentation skills. Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines while exercising sound professional judgment. Demonstrated discretion in handling confidential and sensitive legal, personnel, and policy matters. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, City personnel, boards and commissions, law enforcement personnel, outside counsel, and members of the public. Proficiency with legal research platforms and standard office applications.
Preferred: At least three (3) years of paid legal experience in municipal law, governmental representation, litigation, labor and employment, administrative law, constitutional law, or other public sector practice. Experience representing municipalities or other public entities. Experience advising boards, commissions, civilian oversight entities, or public agencies. Familiarity with Ohio municipal law and the Akron Charter and Codified Ordinances. Experience advising on public records, open meetings, police oversight, internal investigations, constitutional law, or labor and employment matters. Experience drafting legislation, contracts, policies, and administrative procedures. Litigation experience in state or federal court or experience handling administrative hearings.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Competitive Examination Process Interested individuals must submit a resume, writing sample, and professional references along with their application.
City of Akron permanent, full-time employees and their eligible dependents are covered by a comprehensive health plan including emergency accident care, inpatient hospitalization, surgical, diagnostic services, outpatient services, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision and life insurance.
Paid time off benefits may include paid vacation, paid holidays, sick leave or paid leave.
All non-safety force employees are members of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS).
For additional information regarding benefits, contact the Employee Benefits Division at 330-375-2700.
01
Do you possess a Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school? If yes, you must provide a copy of your official transcript or degree by attaching a scanned copy to your application.
02
Are you admitted to practice law in Ohio and in good standing with the Supreme Court of Ohio?
03
Applicants must submit a resume, writing sample, and professional references with their applications in order to be considered for this position. Have you attached your resume, writing sample, and professional references to the application?
Required Question
