Deputy City Attorney

The principal function of an employee in this class is to oversee the legal functions of the Litigation Division, legal representation, contract negotiation and advice to all areas of municipal operation including employment related matters. The work is performed under the direct supervision of the City Attorney, but considerable leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgement and initiative. Supervision is exercised over the work of the Assistant City Attorneys and legal support staff. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establishes and maintains effective working relationships with other City employees, court officials, law enforcement officials, legal professionals, business and community organizations and the public. The principal duties are performed in a general office environment.

The City of Des Moines promotes a healthy work life balance and offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
Residency Incentive
Volunteer Time
Parental Leave
Vacation and Sick Leave Accruals
12 Paid Holidays
Health/Dental/Life Insurance
Wellness Programs
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Benefit
Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS)
Deferred Compensation Plan matching up to 2.5%
Employee Discounts

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Juris Doctorate degree; and
• Substantial (7 years) legal experience with some supervisory role.

NOTE: Transcripts verifying degree conferred with proof of an Iowa License must be submitted to the City of Des Moines Human Resources Department by application deadline to receive credit. Please attach to application or send electronically to humanresources@dmgov.org, by fax 515-237-1680, or by mail to 1551 E MLK Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50317.

• Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and drug screen;
• Possession of a valid Iowa driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility;
• Possession of a law license in the State of Iowa by the application deadline

The City of Des Moines’ Residency Requirement is in effect for this position. Applicant must be a resident of the City of Des Moines within seven (7) months of appointment date and maintain residency within the City of Des Moines while employed in this position

• Supervises, trains, coordinates and manages legal functions within all areas of the Division
• Works closely with the Open Records Coordinator;
• Works closely with the Claims Adjuster to evaluate claims made and recommends settlements as applicable;
• Oversees litigation proceedings, including evaluation, investigation, analysis, research, and settlements of lawsuits and makes recommendations to clients;
• Provides intake on all new cases and claims including the oversight of case assignments;
• Prepares witnesses and may participate in discovery, administrative hearings and courtroom trials;
• Advises on employment matters on behalf of management;
• Negotiates collective bargaining contracts;
• Drafts and reviews employment related contracts;
• Represents the City in resolving unlitigated claims, litigated matters, administrative matters and Iowa Code Chapter 411 and 85 workers' compensation matters;
• Negotiates, drafts, edits complex legal documents in coordination with all departments;
• Studies City, State, Federal and general municipal law for information and precedents having bearing on City legal issues;
• Maintains a full case load whether in advice work or courtroom practice;
• Keeps the City Attorney fully and accurately informed as legal issues arise and carries out the policies and directives of the City Attorney within the Division;
• Attends meetings and advises boards and commissions;
• Responds to citizens' questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner;
• Performs other directly related duties consistent with the role and function of the classification.

Salary : $175,000 - $208,000