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Join our Dynamic Team
The City of Spartanburg is seeking an experienced, principled, and service-oriented legal professional to serve as its next City Attorney. This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking municipal government committed to responsible governance, strategic growth, and community partnership.
Link to position profile:https://www.cityofspartanburg.org/DocumentCenter/View/3000/City-Attorney-Position-1
The City Attorney Role
The City Attorney serves as chief legal advisor to the City Council, City Manager, and municipal departments, providing sound, practical, and ethical legal guidance in support of the City’s operations and strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will be a trusted advisor who combines deep knowledge of municipal law with a collaborative leadership style and an unwavering commitment to public service. The City of Spartanburg is committed to ethical governance, operational excellence, and service to its residents. We seek a City Attorney who shares these values and is ready to contribute to the next chapter of our city’s continued growth and success.
The incoming City Attorney must be an excellent strategic thinker and communicator who both understands and can articulate how individua policies and programs fit into the larger stated goals of City Council and City Management. The City Attorney must also have the ability and be comfortable in managing litigation that is performed by various outside attorneys as well as directly representing the city in litigation when needed. The City Council will make the hiring selection. The City Attorney will advise the City Council directly with direct access and communication with the Mayor and Councilmembers. The City Manager will provide direction on work prioritization and administrative matters. This is a full-time position located within the City Manager's Office. City Council envisions the selected candidate residing in the city and being an active member of the Spartanburg community.
The Ideal Candidate Will Bring:- Significant experience in working with boards and policy-making bodies in a governmental or institutional setting, including direct work with elected officials, executive leadership, and public agencies.
- A demonstrable understanding of laws, regulations, and procedures governing municipal operations, including open meetings and public records laws, procurement, land use and zoning, contracts, employment law, and intergovernmental relations.
- A passion for public service and a genuine commitment to strengthening the community through responsible governance.
- Strong ethical and moral principles, with a reputation for integrity, transparency, and sound judgment.
- The ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, actionable guidance for policymakers and staff.
- A collaborative mindset that fosters trust, professionalism, and accountability throughout the organization.
To learn more about the Spartanburg Community and our Key Initiatives & Priorities please visit this link:
https://www.cityofspartanburg.org/DocumentCenter/View/3000/City-Attorney-Position-1- Examples of Duties
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as chief legal counsel to City Council, the City Manager, and department leadership.
- Provide legal oversight for municipal operations, policy development, contracts, risk management, and compliance.
- Represent the City in litigation and administrative proceedings or manage outside counsel when appropriate.
- Ensure adherence to applicable state and federal laws governing municipal operations.
- Support strategic initiatives that advance the City’s long-term vision and economic vitality.
- Typical Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school and considerable professional legal experience in government, administrative, property, contract, environmental and employment law; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must be a member in good standing of the State of South Carolina Bar Association and licensed to practice law by the South Carolina Supreme Court. All prerequisites for meeting continuing legal education requirements and actively representing clients in court in the state of South Carolina must be met prior to employment and must be kept current during employment.- Supplemental Information
Selection Process:
Written applications may be supplemented with a resume and other supporting material. The most qualified candidates will interview directly with City Council. Applicants should be mindful that the process will comport with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act.
Interviewed candidates will be subject to a thorough background investigation and pre-employment screenings.
Salary and Benefits:
Starting annual salary depends on experience and qualifications and includes an attractive benefit package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance through the SC State Health Plan, State of South Carolina Retirement System, 18 days of general leave and 11 holidays. In addition, the City offers a health reimbursement account to offset the medical deductible. The city provides life and short and long-term disability insurance.
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