ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL-Tribal Legal

The ancestors of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation existed many centuries ago as a community of people…a Tribe living together, farming, hunting and fishing to survive.

Much has changed since that time.  Today the Sycuan Tribe governs its Reservation, owns and operates a Casino and a Golf Resort, and owns a number of other business ventures in the San Diego Region.   

One attribute that remains unchanged, however, is Sycuan's sense of community.  Sycuan is more than just a business.  Sycuan is a community of people working together toward a common goal.  Whether you work in our state-of-the-art  Casino, our beautiful Resort, or become a staff member in our Tribal Government division, you will be part of the Sycuan family.

Job Purpose:

Serves as Assistant or Deputy legal representative to the Sycuan General Counsel, and as an advisor to the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

(Note: Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at the sole discretion of Sycuan Management at any time)

• Provides timely and efficient legal services as directed by the General Counsel to officers, directors, employees, Tribal government, and Tribal business enterprises, including subordinate Tribal entities
• Researches legal issues and provides legal analysis pertaining to Tribal Government policies, codes, ordinances, positions and actions in which legal considerations are necessary and advises the Tribal Council accordingly
• Enhance and protect the Tribe’s sovereignty, jurisdiction and authority
• Provides legal consultation and guidance to officers, directors, management and staff on a wide range of issues including real property, tort, contract gaming, child welfare, land use, taxation, code drafting, tribal court development, environmental, intellectual property, employment law and litigation, and laws designed to protect and preserve the Sycuan and Kumeyaay cultural heritage
• Assists in developing approaches and strategies related to issues in which legislative factors play a role and presents plans to Tribal Council for approval
• Prepares, reviews, and examines complex contracts, agreements, briefs, legal protests, dispute resolutions, resolutions, leases, deeds, ordinances and other documents (Tribal, state, federal)
• Assist specialized outside counsel as needed
• Provides legal consultation and guidance General Counsel and to Tribal Council
• Represents the tribe and its representatives in judicial, legislative, executive, and administrative proceedings in federal, state, and tribal courts
• Supports and assists in the preparation and maintenance of Legal Departmental records
• Undertakes special legal projects as assigned by the Tribal Council
• Assist General Counsel with compliance with the compact between the tribe and state and with modifications, renegotiations or amendments, or implementing regulations
• Provide contract review and negotiations, and outside vendor transactions
• Attend conferences, educational courses and training to maintain professional growth and improve professional expertise

Job Specifications:

Education and Experience:

Essential:

• Juris Doctorate Degree from an ABA accredited law school
• California Bar member in good standing
• 6-10 years’ experience as a practicing attorney or in-house counsel with an emphasis in federal Indian law, tribal courts, torts, contract and business management
• Federal Indian Law experience
• Native-American legislative experience
• Tribal governance and business experience

Desirable:

Skills and Knowledge:

Essential:

• In-depth knowledge of Federal, State, local and Tribal law relating to Tribal business and government activities
• Working knowledge of contract documents and specifications
• Ability to communicate and interact effectively with internal and external contacts
• Ability to compose and prepare legal opinions, documents and correspondence in English
• Ability to research and analyze complex legal data, summarize for Tribal Council, committees, departments, and business entities, and make sound recommendations
• Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure
• Ability to accept constructive criticism
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and calendar management

Desirable:

Supervisory/Managerial Accountability:

Direct:

Indirect:

If you enjoy being part of a community dedicated to creating a memorable guest experience, we invite you to explore career opportunities with Sycuan and join our winning team!