Temporary - Paralegal III - Austin Water

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. Our guiding principles—Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity — anchor our approach in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austin residents. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Diverse and Inclusive Workplace: Work in an environment where every voice is valued, and Innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments designed to foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

ABOUT AUSTIN WATER:

For over 100 years, Austin Water has been committed to providing safe, reliable, high-quality, and affordable water services to our customers. Today, we serve over 1,000,000 people in the Austin metropolitan area, across more than 548 square miles. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, we’re not just keeping up—we’re leading the way with sustainable infrastructure, advanced treatment technology, and environmental innovation.

Austin Water consistently ranks among the best in the country when it comes to water quality. We also treat, return, and recycle wastewater in ways that protect environmental resources. Austin Water exceeds federal and state requirements for clean water and environmental compliance at our water and wastewater treatment plants.

 

Job Description:

Purpose:

Under minimal supervision, performs paralegal services for, and on behalf of, the City. Requires the exercise of initiative and independent judgment on matters of significance involving the City’s general operations.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Prepares, assembles, and/or manages administrative and litigation reports or other documents on legal matters of high complexity.

• Organizes the processing of highly complex legal matters based on established departmental processes.

• Reviews judicial decisions, statues, articles, and ordinances to ensure drafted documents are in compliance with legal authority.

• Reviews and summarizes legal instruments/documents submitted by outside parties.

• Locates and interviews witnesses, and coordinates and schedules court appearances, trials, depositions, and meetings.

• Assists with out-of-court negotiations and settlements and filing documents with County/District Clerk.

• Serves, as needed, as point of contact for legal matters or cases.

• Communicates on such legal matters with external upper-level and professional personnel and City of Austin professionals and supervisors.

• Coordinates with City staff to ensure that drafted ordinances are accurate.

• Analyzes facts and scenarios in a thorough manner and gathers documentation to support facts and conclusions utilizing the public and law library, real estate records, and other resources.

• Drafts and or edits documents for review and approval.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of laws applicable to Texas local governments.

• Knowledge of the City of Austin Charter, Code, and administrative policies and procedures.

• Knowledge of relevant court procedures and rules of evidence.

• Skill in the use of departmental computer systems and technology.

• Skill in planning and organizing.

• Ability to communicate and present analysis and information both orally and in writing in a clear and effective manner.

• Ability to conduct thorough and accurate legal and factual research relevant to the job assignment.

• Ability to analyze and problem solve in a timely fashion on legal issues relevant to the job assignment.

• Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks, schedule interruptions, and shift time deadlines.

• Ability to conform to departmental administrative procedures and requirements.

• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.

• Ability to exercise discretion in confidential matters.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus seven (7) years of experience as a paralegal.

• Successful completion of an American Bar Association approved paralegal training program, paralegal training program conducted by an accredited college or university.

• Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for an accredited paralegal training program.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• None.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience coordinating schedules between staff and customers/clients.

• Experience creating legal notices

• Experience using MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, MS TEAMS.

• Experience with public speaking or conducting presentations.

 

Notes to Candidate:

This position coordinates and conducts Administrative Hearings for water conservation violations, in accordance with Ch 2-13 of city code. This includes coordinating schedules between Water Conservation Staff, customers, and Hearing Officers, mailing required notices, and presenting evidence at Administrative Hearings.

Brief of responsibilities

• Assists with out-of-court negotiations and settlements and filing documents with County/District Clerk.
• Serves, as needed, as point of contact for legal matters or cases.
• Communicates on such legal matters with external upper-level and professional personnel and City of Austin professionals and supervisors.

Pay Range

$29.23 - $36.54

Schedule

Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm with some flexibility

• Telework opportunities may be available after an initial training period. Work schedules are implemented to meet the department's requirements and are subject to change based on business needs.

Location:

625 E. 10th Street Austin, Texas 78701

 

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.