City Of New York

Staff Counsel

City Of New York$100K — $120K *
Legal & Accounting
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Admission to the New York State Bar required
  • Minimum one year of US legal experience post-bar admission, or
  • Six months as an Agency Attorney Intern with satisfactory performance
  • Must maintain good standing as NY State Bar member during employment
  • Specific experience in law related to worker protection or litigation is preferred

Responsibilities

  • Lead complex investigations collaborating with data scientists and investigators
  • Evaluate evidence strength from investigator reports for litigation purposes
  • Litigate enforcement actions to secure monetary relief for workplace violations
  • Draft pleadings and manage discovery as part of litigation process
  • Negotiate settlement terms and edit Consent Orders with employers
  • Conduct legal research to support enforcement and policy initiatives
  • Write public-facing materials about enforced worker protection laws

Benefits

  • Opportunity for impactful work in worker rights and protections
  • Collaboration with a diverse team including data scientists and policy advocates
  • Involvement in enforcement of cutting-edge labor laws such as Local Law 52
  • Job stability and growth opportunities within the government sector
  • Work that directly benefits low-wage and vulnerable worker populations
Full Job Description
Job Description

The Office of Labor Policy & Standards ("OLPS") enforces the City's worker protection laws, including the Protected Time Off Law, Fair Workweek scheduling laws that protect fast food and retail workers, and Delivery Worker Laws that protect delivery workers classified as independent contractors. We also administer the Freelance Isn't Free Act (FIFA) program, which assists freelance workers who have experienced wage theft and other violations, and we bring pattern and practice litigation on behalf of freelancers against repeat violators. In July 2026, we will begin enforcing Local Law 52 of 2026, which protects Uber and Lyft drivers from wrongful deactivation. Under all laws we enforce, OLPS obtains monetary compensation for workers for violations and brings companies into compliance. Working closely with outside stakeholders, OLPS also advocates for new laws, performs research and data analysis to make policy recommendations, and conducts outreach and education to workers, employers, and the general public.

DCWP is seeking attorneys with experience and interest in issues affecting low-wage workers. Key responsibilities include:
-Lead complex investigations to develop evidence suited to litigation, in collaboration with investigation teams of data scientists and investigators;
-Review investigators' reports and evaluate the strength of evidence for litigation;
-Litigate enforcement actions to obtain monetary relief for employees who experience workplace violations; This includes drafting pleadings and motions, managing discovery, interviewing witnesses, preparing witnesses to testify, developing damages calculations, advocating for DCWP at settlement conferences and other appearances, and trying cases;
-Edit and draft Consent Orders and negotiate settlement terms with employers to resolve enforcement matters;
-Perform legal research to support OLPS enforcement and policy work;
-Write letters, legal briefs, and legal research memos on matters related to enforcement and policy; and
-Write public-facing materials about the laws OLPS enforces.

AGENCY ATTORNEY - 30087

Qualifications

1. Admission to the New York State Bar; and either "2" or "3" below.
2. One year of satisfactory United States legal experience subsequent to admission to any state bar; or
3. Six months of satisfactory service as an Agency Attorney Interne (30086).
Incumbents must remain Members of the New York State Bar in good standing for the duration of this employment.
In addition to meeting the minimum Qualification Requirements:
To be assigned to Assignment Level (AL) II, candidates must have one year of experience at Assignment Level I or two years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment. To be assigned to AL III candidates must have two years of experience in Assignment Levels I and/or II or three years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment.

Additional Information

About City Of New York

The City of New York is the most iconic and dynamic city on the planet. With a population of more than 8.4 million people, New York is not only the largest city in the United States — it is the academic, cultural, commercial, and financial capital of the world. City government is filled with opportunities for talented individuals seeking to improve their communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of their fellow New Yorkers. Every day, the City’s more than 300,000 employees improve infrastructure, provide vital social services, build technology, protect health and safety, and so much more.

City of New York Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at the City of New York—the hub of professional growth and innovation in the public sector.

Work You’ll Do

Join the City of New York’s dynamic team to contribute to the community and enhance the city’s services across a broad spectrum of disciplines. The City of New York offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work that impacts the lives of millions while navigating through a career filled with learning and growth. Transform the metropolitan landscape and enrich the lives of its residents with the best minds in public administration, urban planning, and community services. The City of New York stands at the forefront of urban management and innovation. Lead with a unique position in public service, at the intersection of technology, community needs, and sustainable development. Work alongside a diverse team of professionals dedicated to improving city operations and enhancing the quality of urban life. Collaborate with the largest network of public service experts in the nation, fostering leadership, diversity training, and professional development.

Introducing the City of New York Public Service Careers

The team is building a market-leading public service career path to help professionals master their roles and contribute effectively to the city’s development.

Do Innovative Work

Join a vast network of experts—dedicated professionals at the intersection of governance, community service, and urban innovation.

Drive Change in Public Service

Deliver targeted solutions and policies that enhance city living and maintain New York as a leading global city through a depth and breadth of expertise that’s second to none.

Be Part of a Great Team

Engage in a wide range of city projects utilizing cutting-edge technology and strategies, harnessing the unparalleled capabilities, scale, and collaborative spirit of a dedicated public service team.

Future-proof Your Career

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Explore

From improving city infrastructure to enhancing public safety, the City of New York offers a platform for professionals to apply their skills, innovate, and lead.

The City of New York Public Service Initiative

The combined efforts of various departments help overcome urban challenges and lead transformation in city management. Professionals around the globe look to the City of New York for new strategies and solutions to drive significant change and growth in urban living. ## Stay Connected

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