Job Description
Client{{:}} City of Rutland Position {{:}} City Attorney Website{{:}} https{{:}}//rutlandcity.org Location{{:}} 1 Strongs Avenue, Rutland, VT 05701 Salary{{:}} $97,929 - $107,072 Reports to {{:}} Mayor Position Type{{:}} Full-time, Hybrid work-model Hours are 8{{:}}00 AM - 4{{:}}00 PM; however, this exempt position requires flexibility and the ability to work additional hours as necessary to fulfill job duties. About Us{{:}} The City of Rutland in Vermont serves as the economic and cultural hub of Rutland County. Our municipal government is dedicated to providing high-quality services that support a safe, vibrant, and welcoming community for residents, businesses, and visitors. City employees work across departments including public safety, public works, planning, and community services to maintain infrastructure, enhance quality of life, and support the city's continued growth. At the City of Rutland, we value collaboration, accountability, and a strong commitment to serving our community. Rutland is an affordable, tight-knit community that is a great place to raise a family. Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, Rutland offers four-season recreational opportunities. With close proximity to Killington Resort, Pine Hill Park, the Long Trail, and Lake Bomoseen, there are countless outdoor activities to enjoy that support work / life balance. In addition, Rutland has a walkable downtown and diverse dining scene. Position Overview{{:}} This is a great opportunity to serve as legal counsel for the City of Rutland, its city officials, employees, boards and commissions and to make a positive impact on the City. The City Attorney supports the enforcement of city ordinances, regulations and by-laws and represents the City in civil litigation cases. This is an appointed position which can be re-appointed every two (2) years and requires the approval of the Board of Aldermen. Essential Duties{{:}} Serves as the chief legal counsel for the City of Rutland Performs thorough and accurate legal and policy research and analysis Provides general legal and policy advice to the Mayor, Board of Aldermen, City Departments as well as various city boards and commissions Drafts and reviews legal documents (including agreements and contracts), ordinances, and other rules and regulations Performs the role of lead negotiator during collective bargaining discussions with the City's four (4) bargaining units. Handles pre-work and preparation in advance of negotiations Works with Human Resources to review, revise and draft work place policies Provides support and counsel to Human Resources, Mayor, department heads and union leadership to resolve grievances and other employee relations issues Reviews and coordinates responses to all public record requests received by the City of Rutland Ensures compliance with matters such as Open Meeting Laws; Municipal Ethics, etc Negotiates and prepares documents for real estate transactions and provide legal advice relating to development activities involving the city Represents the City during litigation including all aspects of pleadings, discovery, negotiation, settlement, trial and appeals Procures outside legal counsel either directly or in consultation with representatives of the Vermont League of Cities and Towns to address specific or specialized concerns and issues Regularly attend board and commission meetings for purposes of providing real-time advice and guidance (Board meetings are held twice a month on Mondays) Prepares or oversees the preparation of resolutions and related communications for action by the boards and committees Coordinates covered insurance claims and lawsuits with the City's insurance carrier Performs duties of traffic Court Judge Develops and administers the budget for the Legal Department Supervises legal department staff including legal interns, administrative support and Assistant City Attorney Minimum Qualifications{{:}} Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school or a Bachelor's Degree and completion in a law office study program , including at least five (5) years of extensive experience in legal practice. Public law practice experience preferred. Licensed to practice law in the state of Vermont Must be able to effectively and accurately draft memoranda, litigation documents, agreements, new ordinances and policy initiatives Prior supervisory experience leading a team of 2-3 individuals. Ability to plan, coordinate and effectively supervise work of others