General Counsel

Background

PICO California is a multi-faith network of 9 local affiliates and 529 member institutions. We organize across 18 counties 73 cities 35 school districts and over 75 percent of Californias Senate and Assembly districts. Our Vision is a Moral Economy where all people belong thrive and are seen as sacred. Our Vision is a Moral Economy where all people belong thrive and are seen as sacred. Our belief is that true change starts with people their formation relationships and collective courage shape a better future.

Join our team

We are seeking a strategic and grounded General Counsel to serve as the organizations primary legal advisor. This role is ideal for someone who understands the intersection of law advocacy and social justice and can translate complex legal requirements into clear practical guidance.

Reporting to the Deputy Chief of Staff the General Counsel will lead legal strategy compliance and risk management with a strong focus on 501(c)(3) 501(c)(4) and PAC structures. This role is less about theory and more about real-time problem solving ensuring the organization can move boldly while staying compliant and protected.

Why Join Us

Meaningful Impact: Contribute to a mission-driven organization positively impacting our community.

Perks and Work-Life Harmony: We recognize the valuable contributions of our staff by offering a comprehensive benefits package and flexible work arrangements. Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond traditional benefits providing unique perks that promote work-life balance. We strive to create an environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally.

Requirements

What Youll Be Doing:

• Serve as a trusted legal partner supporting key decisions and ensuring the organization operates with integrity and clarity.
• Lead legal strategy and compliance across all areas of the organization ensuring alignment with California nonprofit lobbying and political activity regulations.
• Advise on governance matters including Board policies structures and compliance practices.
• Oversee legal risk management and identify potential issues early while guiding practical solutions.
• Review and advise on contracts partnerships and agreements to ensure alignment with legal standards and organizational priorities.
• Manage outside counsel and support regulatory inquiries audits or legal matters as needed.

Our Ideal Candidate:

• Juris Doctor (JD) and active membership in the California State Bar in good standing.
• 710 years of legal experience including strong expertise in nonprofit and tax-exempt law.
• Deep knowledge of 501(c)(3) 501(c)(4) and PAC compliance including lobbying and political activity regulations.
• Understanding of California employment law.
• Experience advising nonprofit or social justice organizations.
• Ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear actionable guidance.
• Strong judgment discretion and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Why This Role Matters:

This role ensures the organization can do bold impactful work while remaining grounded in strong legal and ethical practices. Your work directly supports the organizations ability to advance its mission and serve the community with integrity.

Compensation and Benefits

PICO California is committed to diversity in its staff and offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including the flexibility of a hybrid role 100% employer-paid health vision and dental for staff members and dependents and a robust 401(k) plan. Generous paid time off including holidays to complement our supportive and collaborative culture. This is a two-year position designed to support key organizational priorities with the possibility of extension. Work from home flexibility in State of California only. Range: $160000-$190000.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We provide equal employment opportunities to all staff and applicants for

employment without regard to race color religion gender sexual orientation national origin

age disability marital status veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful by

federal state or local laws.

Salary Description$160000-$190000
Employment Type : Full-Time
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1
Yearly Salary Salary: 160000 - 190000