Staff Attorney - Real Estate Transactions

MISSION STATEMENTOur mission is to return the city's blighted and vacant properties to productive use. We utilize a variety of Sales programs to make homeownership and land purchases accessible to Detroiters. Plus, we take our commitment to revitalization one step further with our Compliance and Nuisance Abatement programs, requiring renovation and occupancy to improve neighborhoods, eliminate blight, and combat real estate speculation. The Detroit Land Bank Authority works directly with individual buyers, as well as Community Partner organizations and developers for projects big and small.

ABOUT THIS OPPRITUNITYJoin our team and be a catalyst for positive change! We are seeking a dynamic individual passionate about community enrichment and development to contribute to our mission of returning the city's blighted and vacant properties to productive use to enhance the quality of life in our vibrant and diverse community.

The Staff Attorney – Transactions Counsel is responsible for all aspects of real estate sales transactions involving the sale of property owned by the Detroit Land Bank Authority to for profit developers and community nonprofit organizations. Transactions range from the sale of a single parcel for a small project up to the development of large projects involving many parcels. This person will be responsible for all aspects of transactions including negotiating terms, drafting documents, and managing closings, all done in a collaborative setting with representatives of the Land Bank, the City of Detroit, and other agencies. This position will also assist the Chief of Governmental Affairs & Special Counsel with other Land Bank matters. Grade and classification will depend on experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESManage real estate transactions from start to finish, negotiate terms, draft documents, and conduct closingsReview transactions for compliance with disposition and procurement policiesWork closely with colleagues in the legal department, Land Bank’s disposition team, and City of Detroit real estate teams in connection with transactionsProvide advice and counsel on matters of law & policy, including corporate governance, enabling legislation, state law, land use regulations, environmental law, and tax incentives and abatementsDraft authorizing documents, including DLBA Board and Detroit City Council resolutionsProvide advice and counsel to legal department teams and the other Land Bank departments to help achieve strategic goalsPerform additional duties as directed by the Chief of Governmental Affairs & Special Counsel

QUALIFICATIONS (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)Juris Doctorate from an American Bar Association-accredited law schoolMember in good standing of the State Bar of MichiganMinimum of two years related legal experience (e.g. corporation, transactional, real estate)Knowledge of municipal real estate law including ordinances regarding zoning, planning, taxation, and land useKnowledge of law and practice regarding real estate title matters, including quiet title actionsExcellent negotiation and communication skillsExcellent organizational and time management skills and the ability to multi-taskExcellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and good judgment to identify potential solutionsUnderstanding of and ability to apply attorney ethics rulesDiscretion in keeping sensitive material confidentialAbility to work well in a fast paced and demanding environmentAbility to work effectively with others as part of a teamAbility to conduct research that is relevant, accurate, and thoroughExperience using and proficiency with MS OfficeMission-driven individual with high personal integrity and a strong sense of public service to the residents of the City of DetroitDetroit residency, preferred

• Please Submit a cover letter indicating highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications as well as your salary expectations.

BENEFITSWorking with the DLBA, you will be a vital part of the fight against the blight epidemic facing Detroit. Compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's education, training, experience, expected quality and quantity of work, external market and internal value analysis including seniority and merit systems, as well as internal pay alignment. Annual salary is just one component of the Detroit Land Bank's total compensation package. Other rewards include a variety of benefits to employees, including health, dental and vision insurance coverage, life and disability insurance within your first 60 days, additionally included are a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off.**AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER**