Job Description

Tompkins County, NY, Seeks Assistant County Attorney -

Join Our Cutting-Edge Practice in Unique Surroundings!

Tompkins County, New York, made up of a set of vibrant and diverse communities with a diversified economy led by education (we are home to Cornell University, Ithaca College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College), recreation and tourism, heath care, and manufacturing, seeks an Assistant County Attorney to join its County Attorney’s Office. 

This is more than just a legal role – our practice facilitates the County’s achievement of its long-term strategic plan in areas like organizational excellence, equitable service delivery, economic opportunity, quality of life, and sustainability. We proudly aim high, and our work reflects it.

If you are interested in a practice at the intersection of policy, governance, and governing, and practicing in a place CNN just named 2025’s No. 1 Best Place to Visit in the USA, please apply!

Position Snapshot

• Title: Assistant County Attorney

• Location: Ithaca, NY

• Salary: $105,060 (hire rate); $110,593 (work rate after 9 months)

• Benefits: Medical, dental, FSAs, NYS pension, deferred comp plan, PSLF eligible, more

• Application Deadline: August 17, 2025

What You’ll Do

· Develop and collaborate on legal strategies supporting achievement of the County’s strategic plan.

· Support the legislature and departments with legal advice and risk mitigation strategies.

· Prepare resolutions for the legislature and committees, and legislation.

· Litigate on the County’s behalf in federal and state courts, including juvenile justice and PINS matters, and before administrative agencies.

· Draft, review, and negotiate contracts.

· Assist in real estate transactions and land use matters.

· Assist with collective bargaining, grievance handling, and arbitration.

· Serve as a key legal advisor to County leadership.

Why Tompkins County?

Tompkins County is known for its commitment to equity, sustainability, and community well-being. As Assistant County Attorney, you’ll play a key role in supporting our Legislature, its committees and the 28 departments that serve our residents every day. We value collaboration, innovation, and public service. It is hard to imagine a more interesting, challenging, and rewarding general government practice than ours!

What We’re Looking For

· Admission to the New York State Bar.

· Three (3) years of experience as a practicing attorney.

· Strong communication, research, and litigation skills.

· Desire and ability to handle a broad range of legal matters with integrity and professionalism.

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application by August 17, 2025. For full details, visit:

Questions? Contact Tompkins County Human Resources at (607) 274-5526.

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