SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica City Attorney’s Office is recruiting for a Deputy City Attorney in the Civil Litigation Division. The position includes benefits with salaries that range for the following:

-DCA II Steps 1-5: $143,628-$177,312
-DCA III Steps 1-5: $222,492-$274,680

Work Schedule: 9/80 schedule with alternating Fridays off, with hybrid working being available. This is an at-will position represented by the Public Attorneys Union

The Santa Monica City Attorney’s office seeks an attorney with at least five years of experience to serve as a Deputy City Attorney in the Civil Litigation Division. The mission of the Santa Monica City Attorney is to do excellent legal work efficiently and cost-effectively. As advisors to City officials and staff, to provide timely and complete assistance. As advocates, to represent the City and its employees vigorously and fairly. As prosecutors, to diligently and justly enforce the law on behalf of the People of California.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

-The attorney will defend the City and its employees in civil litigation primarily in personal injury, employment, and law enforcement related claims.

-The successful applicant will have a combination of required and preferred qualifications, including high ethical standards and effective litigation skills.

Required Qualifications:

· Civil litigation experience, including dispute resolution.
· Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize competing demands, and exercise sound legal and strategic judgment under pressure.
· High ethical standards, professional integrity, and commitment to public service.
· Strong communication, advocacy, legal research and writing skills.
· Creative, strategic, and analytical thinking in legal matters, with a positive problem-solving attitude.
· Ability to work collegially with colleagues and clients.
· License to practice law in the State of California and familiarity with the California Code of Civil Procedure.

Preferred, But Not Required, Qualifications:

· Experience litigating cases in Federal Court.

· Jury Trial experience.

The City Attorney’s Office prosecutes criminal cases against those accused of committing state and local misdemeanor offenses. The City Attorney’s Office also defends the city, city employees, and councilmembers in civil lawsuits.

The office currently consists of 27 attorneys and 22 administrative professionals and is part of the citywide Realignment Plan that is working to restore Santa Monica to one of the premiere destination cities in the region. As part of the Realignment Plan, in October 2025, the Santa Monica City Council adopted recommendations that included a series of new investments and policy actions designed to transition the city from organizational stabilization toward economic revitalization. Since the Plan was adopted more than six months ago, the city delivered measurable results across its five strategic priorities.

The last day to apply for the position is Thursday, October 1. For more information visit: www.santamonica.gov/CAO-Jobs.