Green Card City Attorney Jobs
City Attorney roles at municipalities and public agencies can qualify for EB-2 or EB-3 green card sponsorship through PERM labor certification, which requires the employer to document recruitment efforts before filing. Government legal departments sponsoring foreign attorneys must satisfy DOL prevailing-wage requirements and demonstrate no qualified U.S. workers were displaced.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What we offer
- Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
- Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
- Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
- Benefits - We care about your well-being.
Agency Description
The City of Philadelphia Law Department serves as general counsel to the entire City government. We provide legal advice to all City officials, employees, departments, agencies, boards, and commissions concerning any matters related to the exercise of their official powers. The Law Department's civil practice includes unique issues involving public interest in business, health, safety, commerce, civil rights, taxation, and community development. We employ more than 290 attorneys and 130 professional staff to support seamless operations, reduce the City's legal liability, and address threats to the quality of life impacting the taxpayers of Philadelphia. We are an ever-evolving Department where all are empowered to reach their full potential, to collaborate with clients as true partners, and to see their work have a tangible impact on the city of Philadelphia. We celebrate the diversity of our staff, the City’s workforce, and the residents we serve, and we promote an environment of camaraderie, accountability, and inclusiveness. The Tax Litigation and Collections Unit represents the City, as plaintiff, seeking to collect taxes and certain other debts owed to the City, and represents the City as defendant in cases where taxpayers dispute their liabilities. The Department of Revenue is responsible for collecting all taxes due to the City and to the School District of Philadelphia, and for collecting water and sewer charges and other debts to the City. From time to time, the Law Department seeks professional services providers to assist it in its work, including third-party collection services and outside counsel.
Professional Responsibility & Public Service
We serve the residents of Philadelphia by providing excellent legal counsel as trustworthy partners to our clients, no matter the challenges we face. Our work frequently involves sensitive matters, confidential information, and communication with City officials and client agencies. All staff are expected to work collectively to demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, discretion, and a strong commitment to public service.
Job Description
Position Summary
The City of Philadelphia Law Department is seeking to hire an attorney as a Deputy City Solicitor in the Tax Litigation and Collections Unit’s Business Tax Division. The ideal candidate has tax law experience, and strong communication, analytical, and writing skills. In addition, preference will be given to candidates with significant experience in the City of Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
Essential Functions
The functions listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed in this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or essential functions. Duties may be modified, assigned, or reassigned as operational needs evolve, consistent with applicable law.
- Mentoring junior attorneys in the Division.
- Assisting the Divisional Deputy with training and case management.
- Trying state court collection cases before the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
- Working with lawyers from the Appeals Unit on tax cases taken to the Pennsylvania appellate courts.
- Trying agency appeal cases before the Tax Review Board and resulting statutory appeals in state court.
- Attending court conferences and hearings.
- Reviewing regulations and providing advice as requested to the Revenue Department.
- Drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
- Researching and analyzing complex legal issues.
Competencies, Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, and agency rules and process.
- Significant experience in the City of Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
- Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.
- Ability to find what applicable laws and regulations apply to a specific matter.
- Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. Must be able to clearly present and explain their case to arbitrators, Board members, opposing parties, or judges, and listen, answer questions, present to large groups and high-level officials and employ diplomacy in challenging situations.
- Ability to effectively communicate complex rules and procedures to the public and to businesses.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to identify and analyze legal issues within complex fact patterns.
- Ability to foster and maintain a collegial, inclusive, and professional work environment.
- Excellent writing, case management, negotiating, and trial skills.
- Ability to support and supervise a team of attorneys and professional staff.
- Ability to train professional legal staff as well as non-legal staff on applicable legal requirements.
- Excellent judgment and critical thinking in high-pressure situations.
- Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work on teams and collaborate with colleagues and clients.
Qualifications
This is an intermediate level position, with a minimum of approximately five (5) plus years of legal experience relevant to the subject matter and/or responsibilities required. Candidates must have a law degree from an ABA accredited law school and must either be a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently be eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204). Continued employment of attorneys not admitted to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within six (6) months of hire is at the discretion of the Law Department.
Work Location & Onsite Expectations
This position is designated as fully onsite and employees are expected to report in person five (5) days per week, in accordance with the City Policy. Regular on-site presence is an operational requirement of this role.
Additional Information
TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume.
Salary Range: $97,299 to $117,022 - Commensurate with education and experience
Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
- Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
- Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
- We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
- Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
- Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Generous retirement savings options are available.
- Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
- Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too! Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!
The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire. Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx
INTRODUCTION
A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What we offer
- Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
- Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
- Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
- Benefits - We care about your well-being.
Agency Description
The City of Philadelphia Law Department serves as general counsel to the entire City government. We provide legal advice to all City officials, employees, departments, agencies, boards, and commissions concerning any matters related to the exercise of their official powers. The Law Department's civil practice includes unique issues involving public interest in business, health, safety, commerce, civil rights, taxation, and community development. We employ more than 290 attorneys and 130 professional staff to support seamless operations, reduce the City's legal liability, and address threats to the quality of life impacting the taxpayers of Philadelphia. We are an ever-evolving Department where all are empowered to reach their full potential, to collaborate with clients as true partners, and to see their work have a tangible impact on the city of Philadelphia. We celebrate the diversity of our staff, the City’s workforce, and the residents we serve, and we promote an environment of camaraderie, accountability, and inclusiveness. The Tax Litigation and Collections Unit represents the City, as plaintiff, seeking to collect taxes and certain other debts owed to the City, and represents the City as defendant in cases where taxpayers dispute their liabilities. The Department of Revenue is responsible for collecting all taxes due to the City and to the School District of Philadelphia, and for collecting water and sewer charges and other debts to the City. From time to time, the Law Department seeks professional services providers to assist it in its work, including third-party collection services and outside counsel.
Professional Responsibility & Public Service
We serve the residents of Philadelphia by providing excellent legal counsel as trustworthy partners to our clients, no matter the challenges we face. Our work frequently involves sensitive matters, confidential information, and communication with City officials and client agencies. All staff are expected to work collectively to demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, discretion, and a strong commitment to public service.
Job Description
Position Summary
The City of Philadelphia Law Department is seeking to hire an attorney as a Deputy City Solicitor in the Tax Litigation and Collections Unit’s Business Tax Division. The ideal candidate has tax law experience, and strong communication, analytical, and writing skills. In addition, preference will be given to candidates with significant experience in the City of Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
Essential Functions
The functions listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed in this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or essential functions. Duties may be modified, assigned, or reassigned as operational needs evolve, consistent with applicable law.
- Mentoring junior attorneys in the Division.
- Assisting the Divisional Deputy with training and case management.
- Trying state court collection cases before the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
- Working with lawyers from the Appeals Unit on tax cases taken to the Pennsylvania appellate courts.
- Trying agency appeal cases before the Tax Review Board and resulting statutory appeals in state court.
- Attending court conferences and hearings.
- Reviewing regulations and providing advice as requested to the Revenue Department.
- Drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
- Researching and analyzing complex legal issues.
Competencies, Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, and agency rules and process.
- Significant experience in the City of Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
- Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.
- Ability to find what applicable laws and regulations apply to a specific matter.
- Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. Must be able to clearly present and explain their case to arbitrators, Board members, opposing parties, or judges, and listen, answer questions, present to large groups and high-level officials and employ diplomacy in challenging situations.
- Ability to effectively communicate complex rules and procedures to the public and to businesses.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to identify and analyze legal issues within complex fact patterns.
- Ability to foster and maintain a collegial, inclusive, and professional work environment.
- Excellent writing, case management, negotiating, and trial skills.
- Ability to support and supervise a team of attorneys and professional staff.
- Ability to train professional legal staff as well as non-legal staff on applicable legal requirements.
- Excellent judgment and critical thinking in high-pressure situations.
- Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work on teams and collaborate with colleagues and clients.
Qualifications
This is an intermediate level position, with a minimum of approximately five (5) plus years of legal experience relevant to the subject matter and/or responsibilities required. Candidates must have a law degree from an ABA accredited law school and must either be a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently be eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204). Continued employment of attorneys not admitted to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within six (6) months of hire is at the discretion of the Law Department.
Work Location & Onsite Expectations
This position is designated as fully onsite and employees are expected to report in person five (5) days per week, in accordance with the City Policy. Regular on-site presence is an operational requirement of this role.
Additional Information
TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume.
Salary Range: $97,299 to $117,022 - Commensurate with education and experience
Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
- Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
- Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
- We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
- Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
- Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Generous retirement savings options are available.
- Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
- Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too! Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!
The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire. Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx
See all 35+ Green Card City Attorney Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Green Card Sponsorship as a City Attorney
Verify your bar admission covers PERM eligibility
PERM requires that your credentials meet the job's minimum requirements at the time you accepted the offer, not at filing. Confirm your foreign law degree and any U.S. bar admission satisfy the posted position requirements before the employer begins recruitment.
Target municipal employers with prior EB sponsorship history
Public-sector legal departments that have sponsored before understand the PERM recruitment process and internal approvals required. Use Migrate Mate to filter City Attorney openings at agencies with active green card sponsorship history, saving you from employers unfamiliar with the process.
Request a prevailing-wage determination early
DOL must certify the prevailing wage before PERM recruitment begins. Check the OFLC Wage Search for the Legal Occupations category in your target jurisdiction so you can negotiate a compliant offer and avoid delays caused by a wage underpayment finding.
Understand how EB-2 versus EB-3 affects your priority date
City Attorney roles typically require a J.D., qualifying for EB-2 advanced-degree classification. Filing under EB-2 can shorten your wait for most countries of birth, but confirm which category your employer plans to file under before accepting an offer.
Document specialized practice areas during PERM recruitment
Municipal legal roles often require niche expertise such as land use, public finance, or labor relations. PERM job descriptions that reference your specific specialization narrow the U.S. worker pool legitimately and strengthen the employer's recruitment documentation submitted to DOL.
Prepare for the I-140 and adjustment of status timeline
After PERM certification, your employer files the I-140 petition with USCIS. You can concurrently file I-485 for adjustment of status once a visa number is available. For most countries of birth at the EB-3 level, visa numbers are current, reducing total wait time significantly.
Green Card City Attorney: Frequently Asked Questions
Can a city or municipal government sponsor a foreign attorney for a green card?
Yes. Municipal governments and public agencies can sponsor foreign professionals through the PERM labor certification process, followed by an I-140 petition filed with USCIS. The employer must conduct DOL-prescribed recruitment, document that no qualified U.S. workers applied, and pay at least the prevailing wage for the City Attorney role in that jurisdiction.
How does green card sponsorship differ from H-1B for City Attorney roles?
Green card sponsorship through PERM leads to permanent residency, not temporary status. Unlike the H-1B visa, EB-2 and EB-3 categories have no annual lottery and no hard two- or three-year status limit. PERM takes longer to initiate, often 12 to 24 months from recruitment to I-140 approval, but the outcome is lawful permanent residence rather than a renewable nonimmigrant visa.
What O*NET classification applies to City Attorney positions for PERM purposes?
City Attorney roles typically fall under the O*NET classification for Lawyers, which is designated as a Job Zone 5 specialty occupation requiring an advanced degree. The specific SOC code your employer uses on the PERM application affects the prevailing-wage level DOL assigns, so confirming the correct classification before filing is important for wage compliance.
Where can I find City Attorney jobs that offer green card sponsorship?
Migrate Mate lets you search specifically for City Attorney and public-sector legal roles where employers have green card sponsorship history. This filters out postings from agencies that haven't gone through PERM before, so you spend time only on opportunities where the sponsorship infrastructure already exists.
Does the PERM process require a City Attorney to have already passed a U.S. bar exam?
It depends on the job requirements the employer posts. If the position requires admission to the relevant state bar, you must meet that requirement at the time the job offer was made. Some municipalities post City Attorney roles requiring only a J.D. and eligibility for admission, which can accommodate foreign-trained lawyers still completing bar licensing steps.