Job Description

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID # 32192: Solicitor
• Union: Non-Union
• ID #: 5377
• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-cityby 4:00 p.m. on September 9, 2026
• Duration: Up to 18 months
• Vacancy type: This posting is for an existing vacancy
• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.
  

OF DUTIES

Under the general direction of the City Solicitor and Deputy City Solicitor, responsible for negotiating and drafting a variety of contracts and agreements including commercial and or real estate agreements. Responsible to review and interpret contract language as well as initiating, drafting and negotiating agreements and contracts on behalf of the municipality.

GENERAL DUTIES

Provides specialized legal services and consultation on housing related matters as well as a range of other contracts and agreements on behalf of the municipality. Will require working with Senior Management and staff at all levels, including City Council, on a variety of legal matters as required.

Develops and implements proactive strategies, anticipates and identifies legal challenges that help to protect the interests of the City and to reduce exposure to legal risks.

Provides research, analysis, counselling and advice for City Council and City Departments on the legal implications of matters of law, including contract interpretation, legislation, procedures, operational and strategic decisions.

Reviews and prepares documents, policy and procedure for the City that are clear, concise and comply with all applicable laws. Ensures that Legal Services contribute to the effectiveness of programs and services that are delivered in the City.

Provides legal opinions and advice on matters that pose significant risks to the City to assist decision-makers at all levels in making determinations regarding service and program delivery.

Participates in the development and implementation of a preventative law program aimed at precluding and remedying anticipated legal problems arising out of day-to-day operations or projects.

Assists the City Solicitor, Deputy City Solicitor and staff with service delivery.

Works in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety.

Performs other duties as assigned which are directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor of Laws degree or Juris Doctor (JD) from a recognized University. Membership in good standing in the Law Society of Ontario. Advanced knowledge and expertise normally attained through progressively more responsible practice. The ideal candidate will have at least 3-5 years or more years of experience negotiating and drafting a variety of contracts and agreements including commercial and or real estate agreements. Experience with construction or infrastructure related agreements an asset.
2. Possess a high level of professionalism and integrity as well as excellent communication skills.
3. Proven ability to work under tight deadlines and to prioritize.
4. Highly developed analytical and business planning skills as well as effective leadership, facilitation, communication, presentation, interpersonal and organizational skills.
5. Highly developed ability to develop work plans and service level agreements.
6. Must have computer skills in a Windows environment utilizing MS Office software.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.