Salary: $163,279.00 Annually
Location : Carlsbad, NM
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 02-2026
Department: Executive
Opening Date: 10/12/2026
Closing Date: 11/13/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
Max Number of Applicants: 10
DescriptionThe City of Carlsbad is accepting applications for the position of City Attorney. Under the general direction and supervision of the City Manager, performs a variety of complex, high level administrative, technical, and professional legal work in prosecuting violations of municipal ordinances, coordinates civil lawsuits, prepares legal documents, advises City employees and elected officials as to legal rights and obligations, and practices other phases of applicable local, state, and federal law. Examples of Duties-- Performs general management duties for the City Manager as assigned. Other related duties may be assigned.
-- Knowledge of current policies and practices of municipal law and public administration.
-- Knowledge of state statutes relating to municipal affairs and laws involving the purchase of goods and services, contracting, labor, employment, land use, environment, and traffic.
-- Skill in preparing briefs and other legal documents.
-- Skill in operating personal computer, including word processing (Word) spreadsheet programs (Excel), e-filing, email, calendaring, remote meetings, scanners, and other office equipment.
-- Ability to prepare and analyze comprehensive legal documents.
-- Ability to carry out assigned projects to completion.
-- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City employees, City officials, the court system, and the general public.
-- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
-- Ability to efficiently and effectively administer a municipal legal department. Typical QualificationsAny combination of education, training, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is preferred.-- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law with a Juris Doctor degree.
-- A minimum of seven (7) years' experience as a practicing attorney, with four (4) years' experience in the areas of law related to municipal or other governmental law.
-- Three (3) years of supervisory experience.
-- Experience in oil and gas law preferred.
-- Must possess a license to practice law in the State of New Mexico and be a member in good standing of the New Mexico State Bar Association.
-- Must not have a conflict of interest that might preclude performance of any duty on behalf of the City of Carlsbad Supplemental Information-- Provides professional advice to the City Council and Department Directors; makes presentations to City Council, boards, commissions, and the general public.
-- Advises City officials of changes to state or federal laws affecting City operations. Interprets laws, rulings, and regulations for City employees and elected officials.
-- Attends all meetings of the City Council, Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners, Board of Solid Waste, Planning, and Zoning Commission, or any other meeting created by state statute or as designated by the City Manager.
-- Advises the City Council of legal conditions and current and future trends and issues legal opinions.
-- Prepares and submits to the City Council such information as may be required by that body or as designated by the City Manager.We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page.
01
Are you a United States citizen?
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Do you have experience managing or supervising staff?
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Do you have 4 years experience in the areas of law related to municipal or other governmental law?
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Do you have at least 7 years of experience as a practicing attorney?
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Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
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Do you have a valid drivers license?
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Are you fluent in English?
Required Question
