The Santa Monica City Attorney's Office (SMCAO) strives to provide the highest level of legal representation to the City of Santa Monica and the People of the State of California. Our office has been recognized as the outstanding public law office of the year by the American Bar Association, and our lawyers have been honored with the California Lawyer of the Year Award.

The Municipal Law Division advises the City Council, the City’s Boards and Commissions, and all City Departments on a wide range of municipal law issues under Federal, State, and local laws, including, but not limited to, the Ralph M. Brown Act, California Environmental Quality Act, Political Reform Act, Public Records Act, housing, economic development, land use, real estate, public safety, labor and employment, public contracting, municipal finance, election law, and constitutional issues. The Division is also responsible for drafting resolutions, ordinances, and ballot measures, reviewing and drafting contracts, and drafting legal pleadings and responses.

Requirements include at least 8 years of municipal law experience, with a strong record of advising elected officials and leadership on complex legal and policy matters. Candidates should demonstrate excellent drafting and communication skills, sound judgment under pressure, and the ability to build collaborative relationships across stakeholders. A commitment to ethics, public service, adaptability, and ongoing professional development is essential, along with an active California law license.

The annual salary range is $251,926 to $311,028 and includes benefits.

Deadline to apply: May 4, 2026.

Go here to view the complete job description and submit an application.