The Santa Monica City Attorney's Office (SMCAO) strives to provide the highest level of legal representation to the City of Santa Monica and the People of the State of California. Our office has been recognized as the outstanding public law office of the year by the American Bar Association, and our lawyers have been honored with the California Lawyer of the Year Award.
The Municipal Law Division advises the City Council, the City’s Boards and Commissions, and all City Departments on a wide range of municipal law issues under Federal, State, and local laws, including, but not limited to, the Ralph M. Brown Act, California Environmental Quality Act, Political Reform Act, Public Records Act, housing, economic development, land use, real estate, public safety, labor and employment, public contracting, municipal finance, election law, and constitutional issues. The Division is also responsible for drafting resolutions, ordinances, and ballot measures, reviewing and drafting contracts, and drafting legal pleadings and responses.
The Santa Monica City Attorney's office seeks an attorney with at least five years’ experience to serve as a Deputy City Attorney in the Municipal Division.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate experience in the following areas: advising city departments or public agencies, drafting ordinances and resolutions, staffing boards and commissions, and have a thorough understanding of regulations surrounding public safety issues, election and conflict law, public bidding and contracting, and demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
This position requires at least five years of municipal law experience, including advising public agencies and drafting key legal documents. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and respond effectively in a fast-paced environment. A commitment to ethics and public service is essential, along with an active California law license.
The annual salary range is Deputy City Attorney II from $140,808 to $173,832 and Deputy City III from $218,124 to $269,292 and includes benefits.
Deadline to apply: May 4, 2026.
Go here to view the complete job description and submit an application.
