Home to more than 150,000 residents, Escondido is just 30 miles northeast of San Diego and about 100 miles south of Los Angeles. The City of Escondido is seeking an accomplished municipal attorney to serve as its next City Attorney following the retirement of a highly respected longtime incumbent. Reporting directly to the City Council, the City Attorney serves as the City's chief legal advisor while leading a talented team of eight attorneys and professional support staff.
 
Escondido manages the vast majority of its legal work in-house, including civil litigation, labor and employment, police legal services, contracts and procurement, Public Records Act compliance, municipal code enforcement, land use, and general municipal law. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, politically astute leader with outstanding legal judgment, broad municipal law experience, and a practical, solutions-oriented approach.
 
Executive or senior-level experience as a City Attorney, Assistant City Attorney, or in a comparable municipal law leadership role is highly desirable. A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and active membership in the California State Bar are required.
 
The City Council is committed to being competitive while remaining fiscally responsible. Salary will be DOQE (budgeted salary: $290,000) + attractive benefits. Closes: 11:59 pm on Sunday, August 9, 2026.