West Valley City is seeking an Attorney I, II, III, or IV, with placement based on experience; lateral candidates are encouraged to apply. Come join a team dedicated to making a positive impact in our community, where the well-being of our residents is always our top priority. We offer flexible scheduling options (based on position) and foster professional growth through comprehensive training programs and learning opportunities. Shape your future in a career that empowers you to make a difference and thrive in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment. 

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Legal Department Division Head, performs civil and criminal law functions which require the application of professional judgment and skill. Minimum requirements include graduation from an American Bar Association accredited law school, membership in good standing with the Utah State Bar, and experience in legal research and writing.

• The Attorney I is an entry level attorney assigned to the Civil Division and/or to the Prosecution Division of the Legal Department. 
• The Attorney II is an experienced attorney assigned to the Civil Division and/or to the Prosecution Division of the Legal Department. 
• The Attorney III or IV is a highly experienced attorney assigned to the Civil Division and/or to the Prosecution Division of the Legal Department. 

Annual Pay Bands: Compensation based on experience.

Attorney I: $102,457 - $140,878

Attorney II: $107,501 - $147,814

Attorney III: $114,600 - $157,575

Attorney IV: $122,646 - $168,638

Schedule: 4x10s Monday-Thursday

Benefits: Full Benefits; health, dental, vision, and life insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave

Retirement: Utah Retirement Systems, pension and/or 401(k)

FLSA: Exempt status

Posting Close Date: May close any time after August 16, 2026

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• When Assigned to the Civil Division: Provide legal counsel to various City boards and commissions, City departments, and other City staff and organizations, as assigned. Advise and assist assigned entities with risk management matters and GRAMA requests. Prepare, analyze, negotiate, and draft agreements and property transactions. Represent the City in assigned judicial, administrative, and legislative proceedings, including the preparation of pleadings and appearances in court and before other administrative and legislative bodies.
• When Assigned to the Prosecution Division: Prosecute, or assist in the prosecution of, assigned criminal, civil, and administrative cases on behalf of the City. Typical prosecution duties include legal research and evidence gathering; screening cases for possible criminal prosecution; discovery; preparing for, and participating in, bench and jury trials, motion hearings, conferences with defendants and attorneys, and other related trial work; preparing pleadings, plea negotiations, and arguments of legal concepts and principles; and recommending sentencing when appropriate.
• When Assigned to Either Division: Draft correspondence, legal opinions, reports, ordinances, resolutions, pleadings, and other written materials. Thoroughly research legal issues and topics and provide clear and concise analyses of findings and opinions to adequately represent the City in areas of municipal law as needed. Perform other departmental duties as assigned. Handle, or assist in the handling of, the prosecution of City ordinance violations, as assigned. Attend City Council meetings, Executive Staff meetings, and other meetings as requested by the City Attorney. Travel to and attend court, meetings, and conferences/seminars on behalf of the City. Maintain professional association memberships. Stay abreast of current legal trends and innovations.
• Other duties may be assigned.

In addition:

• Attorney II may be assigned to supervise office interns and volunteers.
• Attorney III or IV may be assigned to supervise office attorneys, support staff, interns, and volunteers.

Education and/or Experience

• Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited law school, membership in good standing with the Utah State Bar, and experience in legal research and writing.

In addition:

• Attorney II has one (1) year of full-time, paid employment in the practice of law.
• Attorney III has a minimum of five (5) years of full-time, paid employment in the practice of law.
• Attorney IV has a minimum of ten (10) years of full-time, paid employment in the practice of law.

Language Skills

• Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in the English language.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Must possess a current attorney license from the Utah State Bar and be a member in good standing.
• Possess a valid Utah driver’s license or have the ability to obtain one.

Other

• Understanding of municipal law and federal and state constitutional law.
• Knowledge of administrative and business practices.
• Able to maintain positive public relations and confidences and deal diplomatically with people.
• Able to exercise initiative and sound judgment in problem solving and decision making.
• Able to react resourcefully and responsibly under pressure.
• Able to communicate effectively with others, including the communication of complex legal theories and concepts.
• Able to present live training on legal topics relevant to the City.
• Able to react productively to change and handle other duties as assigned.
• Ability to work independently.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Physical movement, sitting, talking, hearing, and close vision ability.
• Occasional operation of a motor vehicle to travel unaccompanied for the purpose of conducting City business.
• Able to type; file; converse on the phone; and perform light physical tasks, including the operation of office equipment and machinery and occasional light lifting of objects.

Work Environment

Typical office and courtroom environments, including air conditioning, ultraviolet lighting, low noise level, and little or no exposure to hazards. May include activities outdoors. Exposure to potential discomfort associated with computer keyboarding and constant monitoring of computer display screens. Occasional travel to locations inside and outside the limits of West Valley City and/or the State of Utah to conduct City business. Exposure to varying levels of stress due to human behavior and the demands of the position.

If you are reading this and hesitating to click "apply" because you do not check every box in the posting, we encourage you to go for it! A true passion and excitement for making an impact is just as important as work experience.