What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant General Counsel position at City of Jersey City?
Company Description The City of Jersey City, incorporated in 1820, is New Jersey’s second-largest city and one of the most diverse communities in the United States. As an employer, the City is committed to innovative and ethical public-sector practices that honor its history while supporting future growth. With more than 3,000 employees across public safety, parks and recreation, skilled trades, and professional fields such as law, health, finance, and technology, Jersey City offers a wide range of career paths at multiple levels. Employees benefit from strong union representation, comprehensive benefits, and a leadership team focused on continuous improvement and high-quality services for residents. Individuals who are dedicated to public service and passionate about Jersey City are encouraged to explore opportunities with the City.
Role Description The Assistant General Counsel is a full-time hybrid role based in Jersey City, NJ, with some flexibility for work from home. This role supports the City’s legal department by providing timely and practical legal advice to various departments, boards, and officials on municipal matters. Day-to-day responsibilities include researching and analyzing legal issues, drafting and reviewing contracts, ordinances, resolutions, policies, and other legal documents, and assisting with litigation preparation and case management. The Assistant General Counsel will help ensure compliance with labor and employment laws, data privacy requirements, and corporate governance standards relevant to municipal operations. The role also involves attending meetings as needed, coordinating with outside counsel, and contributing to training and guidance for City staff on legal and regulatory obligations.
Qualifications
- Strong ability to analyze and address a broad range of legal issues and provide clear, practical legal advice.
- Knowledge of labor and employment law, particularly as it applies to public-sector and unionized workforces.
- Experience with data privacy and information governance, including safeguarding confidential and sensitive municipal data.
- Familiarity with corporate governance principles and public-sector compliance, including ordinances, resolutions, and regulatory requirements.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and admission in good standing to the New Jersey Bar (or eligibility for prompt admission).
- Experience in municipal, governmental, or public-sector law is highly beneficial.
- Excellent legal research, writing, and drafting skills, with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- High ethical standards, sound judgment, and commitment to public service and community-focused outcomes.