New Hanover County Government is seeking a solutions-oriented County Attorney, possessing a broad range of knowledge and expertise in county and local government law, to serve as an outstanding leader, partner, and trusted advisor. This opportunity is available due to the retirement of our current County Attorney, effective July 1, following 39 years of dedicated service. The candidate who will be successful in this role must be a strategic problem solver with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, as well as strong business and political acumen. Good listening skills are critical, as is the ability to build consensus both inside and outside the government.

Appointed by and serving at the pleasure of the Board of County Commissioners, the incumbent will provide legal counsel for the Board of Commissioners and county staff in all departments, the Wilmington International Airport Authority, and the New Hanover Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC) Board and will work diligently to protect their legal interest. Primary responsibilities include providing final legal opinions, serving as the Board attorney for various boards, defending/filing lawsuits, and overseeing the contract management system and reviewing contracts. The position manages a legal and risk management staff of 10, which include two deputy county attorneys and a risk manager. The selected candidate must be familiar with North Carolina Statutes that affect North Carolina county governments and respective departments and agencies, as decisions made by the county attorney must be based on knowledge of and experience with North Carolina law. The appointee must be politically astute while remaining apolitical with demonstrated ability to deal tactfully on numerous matters with the Board of County Commissioners and a broad representation of the public.

About New Hanover County

Along North Carolina’s southeast coast lies the iconic County of New Hanover. At fewer than 200 square miles, New Hanover is the 2nd smallest of the 100 North Carolina counties, but one of the most densely populated. With over 240,000 citizens, it has become the center of rapid urbanization in the southeast region of North Carolina, while still maintaining its small-town charm and sense of community. Beach communities, historic charm, award-winning restaurants, and a local arts scene make for an exceptional quality of life. In addition to being a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family, New Hanover County is a great place to do business. New Hanover County is committed to providing equitable opportunities and exceptional public services through good governance to ensure a safe, healthy, secure and thriving community for all.

New Hanover County operates under a governing board/manager form of government where policy setting is the responsibility of the Board and policy execution is the responsibility of the Board appointed County Manager. To serve the citizens of this progressive, regional urban center, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners adopted a county-wide strategic plan, where its backdrop is framed by these vision and mission statements and a set of shared values that govern how the Board and staff make decisions. These shared values are professionalism, integrity, innovation, equity, stewardship, and accountability.

Juris Doctorate from a law school accredited by the American Association of Law Schools and seven (7) years of practicing law in a local government in North Carolina; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Requires a North Carolina State Bar License, valid North Carolina Driver License, and good record.

The selected candidate must be a resident of New Hanover County within six (6) months of employment. Vaccination for COVID-19 is required within 30 days of employment as per the county’s vaccination for reportable communicable diseases policy. Vaccination status, to include documentation, is required by the first day of employment.

• North Carolina State Bar License
• Valid NC Driver License

Application Deadline

This position is open until filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received by Friday, January 13, 2023.

Compensation and Benefits

The hiring range for this position is $205,000 - $245,000. Salary is negotiable within the hiring range, depending on qualifications.

New Hanover County offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity. Benefit options include medical and dental insurance (effective on date of hire); elective supplemental insurance options such as short-term disability, vision, and voluntary term life; local government retirement; 401(k) with a 2.5% employer contribution (no employee match required); generous paid leave that includes 12 county-observed paid holidays and one floating holiday per year; employer paid long-term disability and an employee assistance program. For more information about New Hanover County benefit options, please click here.

Application Procedures

Interested candidates must submit an application through the New Hanover County website at www.nhcgov.com. Applications received by Friday, January 13 ,2023 will receive priority consideration. Contact for inquires: New Hanover County Human Resources – 910-798-7178.