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WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

The Associate Counsel I reports directly to the Deputy Counsel under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. This position will assist the Deputy Counsel, Chief Counsel, and Associate Counsels II to serve the legal needs of the organization. The Associate Counsel I is responsible for legal advice, counsel and assistance to CapMetro staff and the Board Members regarding general and transportation law, with an emphasis on performing moderately complex legal work analyzing, processing, and coordinating the fulfillment of, and responding to public information requests submitted to CapMetro in compliance with the Texas Public Information Act, Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, and other privacy laws, and any applicable rules. The Associate Counsel I will perform administrative and analytical work primarily involving the interpretation of the Texas Public Information Act and drafting and issuing requests for Office of the Attorney General Opinions and Rulings. This role involves assisting in drafting and negotiating commercial agreements, maintaining legal documentation, and ensuring compliance with legal standards.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING Note: The duties and primary responsibilities below are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this job and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.?

• Advise staff regarding general legal matters that arise pertaining to Capital Metro.
• Organize and plan the day-to-day activities of the Public Information section of the Legal Department which includes the responsibility for the analysis, processing and timely fulfillment of public information requests submitted to the agency, including requests for rulings, opinions, and guidance from the Office of the Attorney General.
• Assist in reviewing and advising on the interpretation, application and enforcement of laws and regulations affecting agency administration and operations, its public information policies, and the policies and operations of CapMetro and its Board of Directors.
• Assist in researching and preparing initial drafts of legal opinions, briefs, proposals, contract provisions, procedures, and reports related to public information and agency records.
• Assist with the negotiation of agreements and drafting of related documents related to CapMetros ongoing and proposed real property interests and real estate transactions, including preparation of license agreements, leases, deeds of trust, easements, releases and other documents.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, ethical standards, and CapMetro s policies and procedures.
• Track legislation and direct implementation as needed following passage of applicable laws.
• Draft and review a variety of legal documents, including agency policies, contracts, interlocal cooperation agreements, and agreements for all departments.
• Draft internal memos to update staff on important legal issues.
• Assist with the engagement of contractors and vendors on contractual and legal matters pertaining to business with CapMetro.
• Keep the Deputy Counsel and management appropriately informed of ongoing activity and critical matters affecting the operation and well-being of the agency.
• Support Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authoritys Safety Management Systems (SMS) process by following safety and security policies, considering safety in every action, and reporting safety and security concerns.
• Perform other duties as required and/or assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Graduation from an accredited law school with a Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B). or Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree.
• Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
• Experience as a Public Information Officer, Open Records Attorney, or similar role where the job required knowledge of the Texas Public Information Act is preferred