OPT City Attorney Jobs
City Attorney jobs are classified as specialty occupations, making them eligible for F-1 OPT work authorization. Most positions require a J.D. and active bar admission in the relevant state. STEM OPT extension does not apply to law roles, so your 12-month OPT timeline is the primary window to secure H-1B visa or other long-term sponsorship.
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This multi-level position provides legal services to and on behalf of the City under the direction of the City Attorney. Depending on the level, the role may include providing legal advice to senior and executive management, elected officials, and City Departments; conducting complex legal research; preparing legal documents; representing the City in internal and external legal matters; and assisting with or leading complex assignments with significant legal, political, operational, or financial impact. Attorney positions within the Austin City Attorney's Office are not governed by the City's non-sworn Municipal Civil Service rules.
Job Description:
Assistant City Attorney I, II, or III
Purpose:
Under the direction of the City Attorney, this position provides legal services to and on behalf of the City.
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.
- Legal Advice: With minimal or no supervision, provides legal advice to senior and executive management, and to elected officials, on primarily complex issues that may have high political or financial impact. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
- Legal Research: With minimal or no supervision, performs research on complex legal issues with moderate political or financial impact. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
- Legal Writing: With minimal or no supervision, prepares legal documents for senior managers on routine or moderately complex matters. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
- Legal Advocacy: With minimal or no supervision, acts as a lead or supporting representative of the City in internal and external legal matters that have significant political/financial impact. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
Assistant City Attorney I-II
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
None
Assistant City Attorney III
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
- Supervision: None
- Leadership: Provides some mentoring and training to lower-level attorneys on legal issues and legal skills.
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 substantive 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.
- 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.
- Proficiency in use of Departmental computer systems and technology.
- Effective law office organizational skills.
- Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks, schedule interruptions, and shifting 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.
Minimum Qualifications:
Assistant City Attorney I
- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
- Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
Assistant City Attorney II
- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
- Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
- Three (3) full years of active practice as a licensed attorney.
Assistant City Attorney III
- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
- Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
- Seven (7) full years of active practice as a licensed attorney.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in utility-related environmental law issues.
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in technology or privacy law.
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in drafting and negotiating complex transactions, such as IT projects; power, gas, and hedging transactions and trades; and other large purchase and acquisition transactions.
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in utility service offerings and contracts.
- Experience or demonstrated interest in public contract law and public finance issues.
- Experience in the public or private sector advising clients regarding complex transactions.
- Familiarity with the structure and operation of the ERCOT market.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
License to practice law issued by the State Bar of Texas.
Compensation Range:
The annual hiring range for this position is $102,910.00-$131,700.00
Notes to Candidate:
Division Overview:
The successful candidate will be assigned to the Utilities and Regulatory division of the Law Department and would be responsible for researching and providing legal advice in one or more of the following areas – City of Austin Utilities - Austin Water, Austin Energy, and Austin Resource Recovery; regulation of certain non-city owned utilities; general complex transactional matters, technology or information security, and compliance. The work is transactional in nature and may include participation in alternative dispute resolution processes or support to the Litigation Division but does not include litigation. The attorney will be responsible for providing ongoing support to City staff and management, including negotiating and drafting contracts, conducting research, reviewing and drafting legal memoranda or resolutions, ordinances, City Code amendments, agenda postings, and other legal instruments. The attorney may also be responsible for preparing and making presentations at City Council meetings, both in public and in executive sessions. The scope of the assigned duties may vary depending on the business needs of the client.
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 Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street, Austin 78701, or other location as designated by a supervisor.
Compensation Range:
The annual hiring range for this position is
Assistant City Attorney I: $80,190.00 - $101,400.00
Assistant City Attorney II: $89,190.00 - $115,100.00
Assistant City Attorney III: $102,910.00 - $131,700.00
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.
Professional Growth and Development:
The City Attorney's Office offers opportunities to advance within our Attorney career ladder, as well as a wide variety of learning opportunities.
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 in order to be considered for this position.
If you are selected for hire:
- Verification of your education (which may include high school graduation or GED, undergraduate, and/or graduate degrees) is required. You must provide proof of education from an accredited organization or institution. You must also provide proof of your professional licenses or certifications. 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 the date listed. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time.
We also recommend that you save or print a copy of the job posting for your records. Once a posting has closed, it will no longer be viewable in the system.
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.
About This Position
This multi-level position provides legal services to and on behalf of the City under the direction of the City Attorney. Depending on the level, the role may include providing legal advice to senior and executive management, elected officials, and City Departments; conducting complex legal research; preparing legal documents; representing the City in internal and external legal matters; and assisting with or leading complex assignments with significant legal, political, operational, or financial impact. Attorney positions within the Austin City Attorney's Office are not governed by the City's non-sworn Municipal Civil Service rules.
Job Description:
Assistant City Attorney I, II, or III
Purpose:
Under the direction of the City Attorney, this position provides legal services to and on behalf of the City.
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.
- Legal Advice: With minimal or no supervision, provides legal advice to senior and executive management, and to elected officials, on primarily complex issues that may have high political or financial impact. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
- Legal Research: With minimal or no supervision, performs research on complex legal issues with moderate political or financial impact. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
- Legal Writing: With minimal or no supervision, prepares legal documents for senior managers on routine or moderately complex matters. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
- Legal Advocacy: With minimal or no supervision, acts as a lead or supporting representative of the City in internal and external legal matters that have significant political/financial impact. May assist other attorneys on more complex assignments.
Assistant City Attorney I-II
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
None
Assistant City Attorney III
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
- Supervision: None
- Leadership: Provides some mentoring and training to lower-level attorneys on legal issues and legal skills.
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 substantive 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.
- 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.
- Proficiency in use of Departmental computer systems and technology.
- Effective law office organizational skills.
- Ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks, schedule interruptions, and shifting 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.
Minimum Qualifications:
Assistant City Attorney I
- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
- Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
Assistant City Attorney II
- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
- Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
- Three (3) full years of active practice as a licensed attorney.
Assistant City Attorney III
- Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited school of law.
- Current active membership in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
- Seven (7) full years of active practice as a licensed attorney.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in utility-related environmental law issues.
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in technology or privacy law.
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in drafting and negotiating complex transactions, such as IT projects; power, gas, and hedging transactions and trades; and other large purchase and acquisition transactions.
- Experience with or demonstrated interest in utility service offerings and contracts.
- Experience or demonstrated interest in public contract law and public finance issues.
- Experience in the public or private sector advising clients regarding complex transactions.
- Familiarity with the structure and operation of the ERCOT market.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
License to practice law issued by the State Bar of Texas.
Compensation Range:
The annual hiring range for this position is $102,910.00-$131,700.00
Notes to Candidate:
Division Overview:
The successful candidate will be assigned to the Utilities and Regulatory division of the Law Department and would be responsible for researching and providing legal advice in one or more of the following areas – City of Austin Utilities - Austin Water, Austin Energy, and Austin Resource Recovery; regulation of certain non-city owned utilities; general complex transactional matters, technology or information security, and compliance. The work is transactional in nature and may include participation in alternative dispute resolution processes or support to the Litigation Division but does not include litigation. The attorney will be responsible for providing ongoing support to City staff and management, including negotiating and drafting contracts, conducting research, reviewing and drafting legal memoranda or resolutions, ordinances, City Code amendments, agenda postings, and other legal instruments. The attorney may also be responsible for preparing and making presentations at City Council meetings, both in public and in executive sessions. The scope of the assigned duties may vary depending on the business needs of the client.
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 Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street, Austin 78701, or other location as designated by a supervisor.
Compensation Range:
The annual hiring range for this position is
Assistant City Attorney I: $80,190.00 - $101,400.00
Assistant City Attorney II: $89,190.00 - $115,100.00
Assistant City Attorney III: $102,910.00 - $131,700.00
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.
Professional Growth and Development:
The City Attorney's Office offers opportunities to advance within our Attorney career ladder, as well as a wide variety of learning opportunities.
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 in order to be considered for this position.
If you are selected for hire:
- Verification of your education (which may include high school graduation or GED, undergraduate, and/or graduate degrees) is required. You must provide proof of education from an accredited organization or institution. You must also provide proof of your professional licenses or certifications. 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 the date listed. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time.
We also recommend that you save or print a copy of the job posting for your records. Once a posting has closed, it will no longer be viewable in the system.
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.
See all 31+ OPT City Attorney Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a City Attorney
Target municipal employers early
City and county governments hire on fixed budget cycles. Applications typically open months before a position starts. Starting outreach six to nine months before your OPT end date gives you the best chance of landing an offer with enough runway.
Confirm bar admission eligibility before applying
Most City Attorney roles require active bar admission in the hiring state. Research your state's bar eligibility rules for F-1 visa holders before applying, since some states have residency or citizenship requirements that could affect your candidacy.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship explicitly and early
Government employers rarely advertise sponsorship willingness upfront. Raise the question during the offer stage, not after. Frame it as a straightforward process requirement, and confirm whether the city has sponsored attorneys on H-1B visa in previous hiring cycles.
Highlight public sector legal experience
Internships with district attorneys, public defenders, or regulatory agencies signal readiness for government legal work. Emphasize any clinical placements or clerkships in your materials. Municipal hiring committees value demonstrated familiarity with public law over private sector experience.
Understand your OPT reporting obligations
Any change in employer, job title, or work location must be reported to your DSO within ten days. City Attorney positions with multiple departments or office locations can trigger reporting requirements. Stay current with your SEVP portal updates throughout employment.
Build relationships with your law school's public interest office
Law school public interest and government affairs offices often maintain direct contacts at city attorney offices. These relationships can surface unadvertised openings and connect you with alumni who have navigated OPT-to-sponsorship transitions in government legal roles.
City Attorney OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as City Attorneys?
Yes. City Attorney positions qualify as specialty occupations under F-1 OPT because they require a J.D. and state bar admission in a specific professional field. Your OPT authorization covers full-time employment with a city or county government legal office. STEM OPT extension does not apply to law roles, so your authorization period is limited to 12 months unless you secure alternative long-term status.
Do city governments sponsor H-1B visas for attorneys?
Some do, but it varies significantly by jurisdiction. Larger municipal governments with established HR and legal infrastructure are more likely to have sponsored H-1B petitions before. Smaller cities may lack the administrative capacity or legal counsel familiar with the process. When evaluating offers, ask specifically whether the city has sponsored H-1B visas for attorneys in the past three years. You can browse City Attorney roles at employers open to sponsorship on Migrate Mate.
Does bar admission affect my OPT eligibility for City Attorney roles?
Bar admission affects your ability to perform the job, not your OPT authorization itself. Your OPT work authorization is tied to your degree field and employment in a related specialty occupation. However, most City Attorney positions require active bar admission before you can begin work. If you're awaiting bar results, some jurisdictions allow supervised practice under a provisional license, which may satisfy the role requirement during that window.
What happens to my OPT status if my City Attorney employment ends?
You enter a 60-day grace period beginning the day your employment ends. During this period you cannot work, but you can search for a new position. Any new employer must fall within your OPT authorization field, which for law graduates means a role requiring a J.D. or equivalent legal training. Report the employment change to your DSO promptly and update your SEVP portal within ten days of separation.
Can F-1 students work part-time as City Attorneys on OPT?
Yes, post-completion OPT permits both full-time and part-time employment. However, USCIS requires that you work a minimum of 20 hours per week to remain in valid OPT status. Part-time City Attorney roles, such as contract or staff attorney positions with reduced hours, satisfy this requirement. Ensure your employment agreement specifies hours clearly so your DSO can document compliant employment if your status is ever reviewed.