Solicitor

Join the City of Medicine Hat as a Solicitor

Permanent, Full time, Hybrid (On-site and Remote Work)

The City of Medicine Hat is committed to fostering a positive, supportive, and engaging workplace where every employee can thrive. As our employees are our greatest asset, we strive to create an environment that ensures their experience is both rewarding and fulfilling. Through a focus on collaboration, innovation, and support, we aim to empower our team members to achieve their best while contributing to the success of our community.

Reporting to the City Solicitor, the Solicitor is responsible for providing legal advice to City Council, Council committees and various other City departments and business units. The City Solicitor Department is responsible for not only the services traditionally provided by municipal government legal departments but also for the full range of services provided by the legal departments of electric and gas utilities, with a focus on the commercial real estate needs.

The Solicitor is a hybrid position that includes office and some remote work. Relocation Assistance is available for the successful candidate. We're a community-minded city with an entrepreneurial spirit and a vibrant industrial history. Medicine Hat is Canada's sunniest city; spring starts early, and summer stretches out a little further, with an average of 330 days of sunshine per year. With a diverse range of cultural experiences, beautiful parks, and a sunny four-season climate, Medicine Hat is a place where you can truly feel at home. Explore the unique opportunities that make our city a great place to live, work, learn and play. Opportunity Awaits - Move to Medicine Hat 

Your key responsibilities

• Provides legal advice and representation to various city departments and business units.
• Occasionally attends City Council and Council Committee meetings to provide legal advice and strategic direction.
• Oversees litigation matters handled by external legal counsel.
• Represents the City before administrative bodies and courts as required.
• Prepares and approves contracts relating to all aspects of the City's operations, with a focus on real estate, commercial transactions, environment, utilities, electric generation, land use, oil and gas, labour and employment, municipal taxation and finance, planning and development, economic development, construction and community partnership activities.
• Prepares and approves bylaws, policies and resolutions for consideration by City Council pursuant to the City's legislative jurisdiction.
• Analyzes complex legal issues, weighs competing considerations and makes decisions and recommendations.
• Reviews and advises on legislative changes affecting the City's operations.
• Provides input, advice and direction in the adjustment and settlement of claims against the City for injury, damage or loss suffered by third parties.

What you bring  

• In-depth knowledge and practical experience in areas of law relevant to municipal operations, including municipal governance, commercial transactions, real estate, planning and development, energy, environmental law, and administrative law.
• Proven ability to interpret and analyze complex legal issues, assess risks, and provide sound, well-reasoned recommendations and decisions.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly, honestly, and diplomatically in a politically sensitive and collaborative environment
• Strong written communication skills with demonstrated proficiency in drafting complex legal documents, agreements, bylaws and policies.
• High standards of professional ethics and integrity, with the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.

Qualifications  

• Successful completion of a law degree (LL.B) or (J.D.) from a recognized post-secondary institution.
• At least three (3) years of professional experience in relevant areas of law relating to Municipal Government operations.
• Required to be a member in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta.
• An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

Why join us?  

• Collaborative team: Join dedicated professionals committed to excellence and positive change.
• Career development: Benefit from training, development, and advancement opportunities.
• Competitive benefits package: A comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, retirement plans and more.
• Competitive compensation: Starting at $135,000/year.
• Relocation assistance available. 

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