Staff Counsel, Shelter PALS

Job Type:  Full Time, Exempt, Hybrid

About Us 

Here for animals since 1868, the San Francisco SPCA is a cherished San Francisco institution, known for compassion, excellence and innovation in the fields of animal welfare and veterinary medicine.  

We operate a public veterinary hospital, a high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter clinic, a community veterinary clinic, and provide low-cost community medicine programs. The SF SPCA saves the lives of homeless dogs and cats through our shelter medicine and adoption programs. Our innovative programs and services serve as models for humane organizations across the country and around the world. 

As a community-supported nonprofit, not affiliated with any national organization, our values: Be Generous, Fearless, and Connected guide over 350 talented and dedicated professionals to deliver on our promises each day. 

Iconic and innovative, the SF SPCA offers you the opportunity to join a team committed not only to veterinary excellence and animal welfare, but to a balanced and rewarding work environment. 

Role Description 

Shelter Policy and Legal Services (Shelter PALS or SPALS) is the country’s first and only pro bono legal-aid program dedicated exclusively to the needs of animal shelters and rescue groups. Shelter PALS’ programs and projects have impact on companion animals statewide and provide legal advice on a variety of animal welfare areas including shelter management, animal care, animal cruelty, and access to veterinary care for all California pet owners.  

We champion policy change through active legislative work and counsel shelter and rescue group clients throughout California to improve outcomes for animals and oversee and support litigation in connection with our mission and goals. We are seeking a staff counsel to work closely with the Managing Counsel to support the initiatives of the Shelter PALS program.  

This role will assist with legal research, policy development, responding to client questions, litigation support, and advocacy efforts related to all aspects of companion animal welfare issues. 

The Staff Counsel reports to the Chief Executive Officer and works closely with SPALS Managing Counsel. This position will support both SPALS and the SF SPCA General Counsel. The majority of support is allocated to SPALS. 

Core Responsibilities 

• Conduct comprehensive legal research on animal welfare laws, regulations, and case law, particularly as they pertain to shelter and rescue animals, and humane treatment. 
• Assist SPALS Managing Counsel in drafting legal documents, including advocacy materials, litigation briefing, policy briefs, shelter contracts, and compliance documents, ensuring alignment to organizational goals and legal standards. 
• Supporting the SF SPCA General Counsel Monitor, 
• route, and escalate legal notices and privacy compliance inquiries 
• Support routine Legal Department administration 
• Prepare vendor contracts, from drafting to execution 
• Provide corporate governance support as needed 
• Prepare client-facing legal communications, from drafting to delivery 
• Collaborate with the Chief Executive Officer and SPALS Managing Counsel to develop and implement strategic initiatives to influence legislation and public policy that enhances animal welfare. 
• Track relevant legislation and regulatory developments, preparing summaries and recommendations for the team to inform advocacy efforts. 
• Counsel shelters and rescues with respect to compliance with local, state, and federal laws related to animal welfare and shelter and rescue operations. 
• Write brief articles to inform donors and constituents of SPALS legal and legislative developments 

•  A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. 
• 1-3 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in animal law, nonprofit advocacy, or public interest law. 
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively. 
• A genuine passion for animal welfare and experience in community outreach or advocacy is preferred. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a collaborative approach to teamwork. 
• Proficient in legal research tools and standard office software. 
• Knowledge: Understanding of legislative processes and current issues in animal welfare is a plus. 

Salary & Benefits 

The starting salary for this position depends on the depth and breadth of experience. The expected range is $105,000 - $115,000.  Regular, full-time positions are eligible for a benefits package including 

• Paid Time Off and Holiday pay 
• Medical, Dental & Vision insurance 
• Life Insurance 
• Long-term Disability Insurance 
• 401k Retirement Plan and contribution matching 
• Student debt relief program 
• California bar dues 
• Professional membership and CLE budget 
• Pre-tax Commuter Benefits 
• Discounts on retail and pet supplies 
• Discounts on veterinary care at our SF SPCA Veterinary Hospital and S/N Clinic 

The SF SPCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This job description reflects the assignment of essential functions and does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The San Francisco SPCA is an at-will employer and may conduct pre-employment background checks and drug screening depending on the role.