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The New York City Campaign Finance Board manages New York City’s small donor democracy program and educates and engages voters via NYC Votes. The CFB has enjoyed a tremendous arc of progress over its 30-year history, and our updated flagship small donor democracy program is the centerpiece of this progress.

We eliminate barriers to participation by providing access to the resources New Yorkers need to vote or run for office and amplify the voices of small donors with New York City’s small donor democracy program.

We are dedicated to making New York City’s local democracy more open, transparent, and equitable. You would be working with a team that is mission-driven and committed to continuous improvement.

The Legal unit is responsible for enforcing the city’s campaign finance laws; drafting rulemakings, legislation, and advisory opinions; representing the agency in litigation; and providing in-house legal counsel.

The associate counsel reports to the General Counsel and works with a team of 5-8 attorneys, a paralegal, and a legal assistant. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Prosecuting enforcement actions against campaigns and independent spenders; Make presentations before the 5-member Campaign Finance Board regarding formal and informal complaints and/or investigations, which includes the review and analysis of all submissions by adversaries; draft administrative determinations; issue recommendations on civil penalties and other appropriate enforcement actions; meet and correspond with campaigns regarding enforcement matters; Representing the agency in administrative hearings, collection actions, and Article 78 proceedings; Drafting and analyzing rules, legislation, and advisory opinions; Conducting research and drafting memoranda in response to legal inquiries; and Providing legal counsel to the agency on matters relating to records retention, privacy and identifying information compliance, procurement and contracting procedures

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & OTHER BEHAVIORS (KSAOs)

We're seeking individuals eager to make an impact, even if they don't tick every box on our job description. We believe in the power of diverse perspectives and the unique blend of lived experiences, non-traditional education pathways, practical know-how, and a variety of skills and abilities that each candidate brings to the table. If you're ready to learn and grow with us, we encourage you to apply and be part of our dynamic team.

Knowledge

Demonstrated experience prosecuting enforcement actions against campaigns and independent spenders; An understanding of administrative law including how to draft rules, regulations, and advisory opinions; Experience in providing legal advice on records retention policies, privacy and identifying information compliance, and adherence to relevant laws.

Skills

Excellent written and oral communication skills; Excellent legal research, legal writing, and analytical skills; Excellent organizational and multitasking skills; Attention to detail; Proficient in interpreting statutes, administrative codes, and case law to construct clear and persuasive legal arguments. Proficient in legal research tools such as Westlaw and LexisNexis. Familiarity with electronic filing systems and compliance tracking tools to streamline enforcement actions. Strong judgment and decision-making skills.

Abilities

Ability to engage with external parties in a professional and empathetic manner; Ability to track multiple deadlines across different election cycles; Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time effectively; Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a small team.

Preferred Qualifications

Law degree and admission to the New York state bar required. One year of legal experience or equivalent experience in a relevant field; Experience in NYC government, election law, campaign finance or a related field; Experience in administrative law and/or regulatory enforcement; Ability to present detailed legal arguments in an administrative hearing; Demonstrated interest in public service and commitment to the CFB’s mission; Experience in legislation and regulation.

Additional Information

The City of New York provides generous medical benefits (including dental and vision through respective unions or funds), retirement, tuition reimbursement, and additional ancillary benefits. CFB offers a flexible and hybrid work schedule, opportunities for career development, learning & development (leadership training, coaching), wellness programs, and much more!

The CFB is an equal opportunity employer firmly committed to diversity. All individuals are encouraged to apply. If you anticipate needing any type of reasonable accommodation to apply for an employment opportunity, please contact access@nyccfb.info or (212) 409-1800.

How to Apply

All applicants must apply through NYC Government Jobs | Explore Careers | City of New York (https://cityjobs.nyc.gov/)

Please search and apply to the job ID number listed above. Resume and cover letter are required for consideration. Note that only applicants under consideration will be contacted.

For more information on careers with the NYC Campaign Finance Board visit our website at https://www.nyccfb.info/ to access the full listing of job opportunities and to learn more about our agency.

Minimum Qualifications

Admission to the New York State Bar; and either "2" or "3" below. One year of satisfactory United States legal experience subsequent to admission to any state bar; or Six months of satisfactory service as an Agency Attorney Interne (30086).

Incumbents must remain Members of the New York State Bar in good standing for the duration of this employment.

In addition to meeting the minimum Qualification Requirements:

To be assigned to Assignment Level (AL) II, candidates must have one year of experience at Assignment Level I or two years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment. To be assigned to AL III candidates must have two years of experience in Assignment Levels I and/or II or three years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.

Residency Requirement

New York City Residency is not required for this position

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.