The Opportunity
The County Counsel acts as a key advisor
in providing public policy and legal advice to elected officials, county
management, and affiliated agencies. Within broad objectives established by the
Board of County Commissioners, the County Counsel develops and implements
goals, objectives, policies, and priorities. This position provides an
outstanding opportunity to address the most complex legal challenges, work
closely with elected and appointed policy officials, and lead a team of
dedicated professionals.
A highly effective leader, the County
Counsel manages the Office of the County Counsel with responsibility for
hiring, directing, and evaluating staff that provide quality service internally
to departments and the Board of Commissioners. The County Counsel develops and
implements the office strategic plan and collaborates with staff to establish
annual work plans with identified goals, objectives, and measurable outcomes.
The County Counsel develops annual and supplemental budgets for the Office of
County Counsel and actively monitors revenues and expenditures. This position
also presents budget proposals to the Budget Committee and the Board of County
Commissioners.
The County Counsel provides or oversees
legal representation in all civil matters on behalf of the County and
prosecutes, defends, and appeals legal actions, suits, and other proceedings.
This position reviews and analyzes court decisions and pending legislation and
directs the research and preparation of legal opinions, memoranda, ordinances,
resolutions, contracts, agreements, deeds, and other legal documents.
Representing the County in court, the County Counsel prepares and presents
cases at trials or hearings and can effectively evaluate and negotiate out of
court settlements.
The County Counsel is apolitical yet
politically astute, with a strong history of developing effective relationships
with elected officials and providing balanced and sound legal advice. The
successful candidate develops positive partnerships throughout the County,
establishes a high level of trust, and actively collaborates with others to
find creative solutions to problems and assist in achieving the public policy
objectives established by the Board of County Commissioners. Additionally, the
ideal candidate will have a vision for the Office of the County Counsel and the
appropriate role the Office has in shaping and implementing public policy
consistent with the Board and senior county management. With a commitment to
leading the equitable delivery of Washington County’s services and unquestioned integrity and sound
ethics, the County Counsel is considered a thought partner dedicated to public
service and works in the best interest of the County at all times.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will be a member of
the Oregon State Bar, with at least ten years of increasingly responsible legal
experience, with an emphasis on government law. A successful track record as a
City or County Attorney, Deputy Attorney, or experience in a private law firm
advising public sector clients is ideal. Direct leadership experience managing
professional and paraprofessional legal personnel is essential. Knowledge of
the principles and practices of municipal law, litigation, civil rights, and
labor relations law is required, as is expertise in successful negotiation,
mediation, and conflict resolution.
Federal, State, and local statutes,
regulations, rules, and ordinances applicable to County activities and
functions, including municipal liability, public meetings, torts, land use,
public records, and public financing,
is required. Knowledge of civil trial and appellate procedures in state and
federal courts and administrative tribunals is ideal.
Compensation and
Benefits
The County Counsel contract is at the
discretion of the Board of Commissioners, with a salary range of $169,642 – $242,042. A competitive total compensation package will consider the
candidate’s experience and expertise. Benefits offered to all employees include
the following:
·
Medical, dental,
vision, life, and disability insurance
·
Enrollment in the
Oregon Public Employee Retirement System
·
Vacation,
administrative, holiday, and sick leave
·
Washington County
Wellness Program
·
Employee Assistance
Program
·
Free TriMet pass
How to Apply
Washington County
values a culture of equity, diverse perspectives, and life experiences. The
organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony,
offering job stability and an opportunity to serve and support the growing,
diverse community. Washington County is an equal opportunity employer with a
commitment to diversity and an inclusive workforce. Women, minorities,
veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Applications will be accepted electronically by The
Novak Consulting Group at https://bit.ly/38K2dtY. Applicants complete a brief online form
and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. Please apply no later
than February 21, 2021.
Please direct questions to Heather Gantz at or
513-221-0500.
