About This Position

Job Description:

Paralegal II

Purpose: 

Under direct supervision, performs paralegal services for, and on behalf of, the City. Requires the exercise of initiative and independent judgment on matters of significance involving the City’s general operations.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities: 

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Prepares, assembles, and/or manages administrative and litigation reports or other documents on legal matters of moderate to significant complexity.

• Organizes the processing of moderately complex legal matters based on established departmental processes.

• Assists in the maintenance of case and legal filing systems.

• Communicates on such legal matters of routine complexity with internal and/or external persons or organizations.

• Conducts standard research and analysis of facts and applicable laws and cases.

• Utilizes on-line research services and other computer-based and written resources.

• Performs analysis of moderate complexity on legal or factual issues assigned.

• Prepares initial and final drafts including, but not limited to, business letters, internal memoranda, etc.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: 

None.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of laws applicable to Texas local governments.

• Knowledge of the City of Austin Charter, Code, and administrative policies and procedures.

• Knowledge of relevant court procedures and rules of evidence.

• Skill in the use of departmental computer systems and technology.

• Skill in planning and organizing.

• Ability to communicate and present analysis and information both orally and in writing, in a clear and effective manner.

• Ability to conduct thorough and accurate legal and factual research relevant to the job assignment.

• Ability to analyze and problem solve in a timely fashion on legal issues relevant to the job assignment.

• Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks, schedule interruptions, and shift time deadlines.

• Ability to conform to departmental administrative procedures and requirements.

• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other City employees and the public.

• Ability to exercise discretion in confidential matters.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus two (2) years of experience as a paralegal.

• Successful completion of an American Bar Association approved paralegal training program or a paralegal training program conducted by an accredited college or university.

• Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for an accredited paralegal training program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with drafting discovery, motions and other civil litigation documents.

• Experience working in a governmental setting, processing non-litigation documents and assignments.

Licenses and Certifications Required: 

None.

Notes to Candidate:

Work Location:

We value a healthy work-life balance and currently offer a 40-hour work week with flexible work hours and a hybrid schedule of three days remote and two days on-site in accordance with the City’s policy and subject to supervisor approval. On-site work is primarily located at the City of Austin Municipal Court, 6800 Burleson Road, Building 310, Suite 175, Austin, TX 78744, or at other locations designated by a supervisor.

Salary:

$28.76 - $35.59 hourly

Benefits:

Working with the City of Austin offers numerous benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid leave time, a comprehensive retirement plan, training opportunities, and more. Click HERE for more information.

Professional Growth and Development:

The City Attorney's Office offers opportunities to advance within our Paralegal career ladder, as well as a wide variety of learning opportunities, including a recurring in-house CLE program and membership in local and national professional organizations.

Division Overview:

The Criminal Prosecution Division prosecutes Class C misdemeanors pursuant to state laws and City ordinances. The attorneys in this division practice before the City of Austin Municipal Court and Austin Community Court and cover an average of 45 dockets per week including jury trials, bench trials, appearance dockets and pre-trial motion hearings. Prosecutors pursue approximately 250,000 cases a year submitted by City of Austin departments including Police, Code Compliance, Development Services, Water, Animal Services, Fire, and Health. This Division also has the City's Communication Prosecution Unit - a proactive problem-solving approach to addressing community problems and improving the quality of life in Austin.

When completing the City of Austin employment application:

• Please be sure to detail on the application all previous employment that you wish to be considered as part of your qualifications. Any final offer will be made based on the information provided in the application.

• A detailed, complete employment application is required. It helps us to better evaluate your qualifications and will be used to determine salary if you are selected for this position. Be sure to provide job titles and employment dates for all jobs you wish to be considered.

• A resume is required but will not substitute for a complete employment application.

• Please do not use the phrase “see resume” or refer to other documents to complete your application.

• Do not leave the “Duties and Responsibilities” sections blank.

• Please include contact information from previous employers.

• Failure to fill in all portions of the application will be considered an incomplete application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Cover Letter and Resume Required:

This position requires a cover letter and resume. Please upload your documents to be considered for this position.

If you are selected for hire:

• If you are in the military or are a military veteran, you will need to provide a copy of the Member 4 page of your DD-214 prior to confirming a start date.

Please be aware that the Job Posting Close Date reflects the final day to apply, but the posting will close at 11:59 PM the day before that date. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time.

.

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.