Description
Annual Salary Range: $138,569.60 - $214,801.60
First Review of Applications: July 2, 2026
Expected Start Date: August 2026
Role
The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is seeking a specialized Counsel (reporting to the General Counsel) to focus exclusively on the complex landscape of employment law and human resources. This is a critical role for a legal professional who excels at proactive risk management.
In this position, you will move beyond high-level advice to become a hands-on architect of our workplace culture, ensuring that every stage of the employee lifecycle—from the first interview to post-employment—is legally sound and ethically grounded.
Overview of the Office of General Counsel
Working in close collaboration with members of the Executive Office, and employees throughout the organization, the Office of General Counsel has a reputation for providing outstanding legal advice and partnering on projects and initiatives that contribute to the overall success of the agency. SANDAG functions in a complex environment and the Legal team is known for being innovative and proactive in facilitating decisions that support achievement of the agency’s goals.
Requirements
Experience and Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active membership in the California State Bar.
- A minimum of five (5) years of experience practicing employment law. Candidates with a mix of private firm defense and public agency experience are highly encouraged.
- Deep knowledge of Title VII, the ADEA, and state-specific employment codes.
- A firm grasp of Constitutional Law as it pertains to public employment (e.g., First Amendment retaliation claims and Fourth Amendment privacy expectations).
- Ability to mediate internal disputes and facilitate difficult conversations between management and staff.
