Job Description

Job Description

Job Announcement
Housing Attorney
Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc. (GBLA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is “to promote social change and justice by providing high-quality legal services to the low-income community.” GBLA’s service area is Kern County, California.
GBLA seeks an attorney to join GBLA’s Shriver and EAF-HP units (Attorney). Under the direct supervision of the Director of Litigation, the Attorney helps Kern County residents defend against unlawful detainer (eviction) actions. Eviction defense offers critical support for individuals facing the threat of losing their homes. With legal representation, tenants gain protection, advocacy, and access to resources to navigate complex, fast, eviction proceedings. The Attorney ensures tenants’ rights are upheld, provides guidance on legal options, and negotiates to prevent homelessness or a “soft-landing.” By offering stability, peace of mind, and a chance to stay housed, the Attorney protects individuals and families from housing instability. This is a full-time position designed to expand the capacity of GBLA’s housing team.
The candidate must be an active member of the State Bar of California or eligible for the State Bar of California’s Multijurisdictional Practice Program (MJP). The MJP Program’s requirements, among others, are:
• Admission in a U.S. state, jurisdiction, possession, territory or dependency as an active licensee in good standing.
• Production of an original certificate of good standing from all U.S. jurisdiction(s) of admission.
• Residence in California.
• Meet State Bar requirements for an acceptable moral character; and
• Compliance with all annual requirements.
The ideal candidate for this position will possess extensive knowledge and experience in federal and state housing law. The candidate must demonstrate exceptional analytical, organizational, and writing skills, as well as strong oral and written communication abilities. A firm commitment to public interest advocacy and a proactive approach to collaborative work are essential qualities. Additionally, the ideal candidate will exhibit leadership capabilities, providing guidance and direction to colleagues as needed. Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is strongly preferred. This position offers the opportunity for remote work within the state of California, providing flexibility and accessibility for qualified candidates.
To Apply
Email or mail a cover letter, writing sample, resume, and three professional references to: HR@gbla.org or Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc., 615 California Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93304.

Compensation
The salary range for this full-time exempt role is $90,000 - $104,000 annually, with a final offer dependent on experience, job-related skills, and qualifications.
Benefits
Coverage is effective on the first day of the month following thirty (30) days of employment unless otherwise noted.
• Flexible / Hybrid Work Location
• Medical
o No cost medical coverage plan for all full-time employees
o Optional dependent coverage through a Sec. 125 plan (paid by the employee)
• Dental and Vision (no cost for employee, spouse/domestic partner, and dependents)
• Life Insurance
o No cost coverage for employee (3x the annual wage)
o No cost coverage for spouse ($10,000)
o No cost coverage for dependents ($5,000)
• Long & Short-Term Disability (employee only)
• Retirement 403(b) plan (no waiting period, employee-only contributions)
• Holidays (14 - 16 paid days)
• Sick Leave (accrual begins on the first day of employment, at 3.46 each pay period)
• Vacation (accrual begins on the first day of employment)
o 0 to 2 years: 2 weeks / 10 days / 6.25 hours monthly
o 2 to 4 years: 3 weeks / 15 days / 9.375 hours monthly
o 4 to 8 years: 4 weeks / 20 days / 12.5 hours monthly
o 8+ years: 5 weeks / 25 days / 14.42 hours monthly
• Wellbeing benefits
• Employee Discount Program