Located in the picturesque Fraser Valley, the City of Abbotsford is the fifth largest municipality in BC with a population of approximately 153,500. Surrounded by majestic mountains and working fields, Abbotsford offers a rural charm and friendly small-town hospitality within a fast-paced urban cityscape that boasts a flair for trade, commerce, and entertainment. Young families and working professionals continue to relocate to Abbotsford, drawn by the affordable real estate, booming economy, and superior quality of life. Residents have access to extensive civic recreational and entertainment facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, and a 7000-seat spectator arena which hosts the Abbotsford Canucks as well as world class concerts, shows, and attractions. Abbotsford has excellent recreational facilities and is home to two private and three City-operated arenas, hundreds of parks and playing fields, and an extensive trail system that spans the entire community. Abbotsford’s educational facilities encompass pre-school to post-secondary levels, with full degree programs offered by the University of the Fraser Valley. Elementary and secondary education is provided by both public and privately-operated institutions. The major medical facility is the Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre (ARHCC), a state-of-the-art, 300-bed hospital. The ARHCC provides enhanced and specialized health services to more than 330,000 people in the Fraser Valley region. There are also a number of intermediate and extended care facilities as well as a unique Campus of Care tri-fold medical centre that includes the second BC Children’s Hospital. And don’t forget about our fabulous, municipally owned and operated Abbotsford International Airport to connect you with destinations around the world.
As a Staff Lawyer at the City of Abbotsford, you will report to the Director, Legal Services and provide legal advice and assistance to City staff conducting daily business and long-term planning. As a Staff Lawyer, you manage internal legal staff and external counsel and advise on a broad range of issues that impact the municipality including contracts, litigation, land use planning, insurance, procurement, tax, real estate, liability claims, administrative law, and bylaw drafting and enforcement.
The ideal candidate for this role is a four to ten-year call with a successful track record of providing legal advice to or within a municipality, but all candidates with strong credentials and relevant experience are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate can expect a competitive salary in line with their experience and a comprehensive benefit package, including membership in British Columbia’s Municipal Pension Plan (a defined benefit pension) and a generous vacation allowance. This is an ideal role for a civically-minded lawyer who seeks to develop an exciting, satisfying, and unique generalist practice in an established legal department with excellent internal and external support.
As the ideal candidate you have:
- A passion for learning and applying all areas of the law.
- A practical, solution-focused, and customer-centric approach to providing legal services.
- Legal practice experience enabling you to confidently manage a diverse set of practice areas.
- Familiarity with key local government legislation.
- Experience in a municipal, public sector, or regulated environment.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
The City of Abbotsford is committed to creating a workplace that fosters a culture of diversity and inclusion by attracting, retaining and developing a talented and diverse workforce which broadly reflects the community and citizens we serve. As such, we encourage applications from individuals from all genders, backgrounds and underrepresented groups. We will be happy to work with applicants requesting accommodation at any stage of the hiring process. The City offers extensive personal and professional development opportunities. To apply, please visit us online at: www.abbotsford.ca/careers.
Salary: $134,024 - $158,139
Closing Date: May 5, 2024