The County of Mendocino is a leading public employer with a $694.4 million annual budget, offering competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work environment. The County is committed to attracting and retaining talented professionals dedicated to serving the community and enhancing residents' quality of life.
Located on California’s scenic North Coast, Mendocino County spans more than 3,500 square miles of coastline, forests, mountains, valleys, and renowned wine country. Just two hours north of San Francisco, the county offers a high quality of life, abundant outdoor recreation, vibrant arts and cultural opportunities, and charming coastal and inland communities. The county seat, Ukiah, is home to approximately 16,700 residents.
The Office of County Counsel serves as the legal advisor to the Board of Supervisors and County departments, boards, commissions, and special districts. Responsibilities include attending Board meetings, providing legal advice, drafting ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and policies, negotiating and reviewing agreements, preparing legal opinions and pleadings, representing the County and its officials in civil matters, conducting trainings, and supporting a wide range of County operations and initiatives.
Appointed by the Board of Supervisors to a four-year term, the County Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor to the Board, County departments, officers, employees, boards, commissions, and special districts, while directing all operations of the County Counsel’s Office. Responsibilities include overseeing department administration, personnel, and budget functions; providing legal guidance on complex public-sector matters; and ensuring the delivery of high-quality legal services across the organization.
The ideal candidate is an experienced public law attorney and collaborative leader with strong communication, management, and relationship-building skills. They will demonstrate sound judgment, political acumen, integrity, and a commitment to ethical public service, while fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and professional development.
Qualifications:
A J.D. from an accredited law school and five (5) years of experience in a California County Counsel’s Office, City Attorney’s Office, or other California governmental civil law practice; or one (1) year equivalent to an Assistant County Counsel in Mendocino County; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Must be licensed to practice law in the State of California.
The Board intends to negotiate a mutually agreed upon employment agreement with compensation in alignment based on overall career experience for the selected candidate. The previous County Counsel’s salary was $200,000.
View the complete job description HERE.
Deadline to file an application: July 5, 2026
To apply, go to www.bobmurrayassoc.com.
If you have any questions, please contact the lead recruiter, Gary Phillips, at (916) 784-9080.
