Employment Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking an Employment Associate with 4 years of experience to join a well-established California-based law firm. This position may be based in Los Angeles, Orange County, Sacramento, or San Francisco and offers a collaborative hybrid work environment, hands-on mentoring, and a clear path to partnership.

About the Role

The firm’s Employment Group represents employers across industries in a variety of litigation and advisory matters. The team provides practical and strategic counsel on workplace issues, litigates high-stakes employment disputes, and helps clients navigate evolving labor and employment laws in California and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Defend employers in complex class, collective, and representative actions, as well as single-plaintiff wage-and-hour, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation cases.

• Advise employers on a wide range of employment counseling and compliance issues.

• Conduct workplace investigations and training sessions for clients.

• Draft motions, pleadings, and legal memoranda, and represent clients in court and before administrative agencies.

• Collaborate closely with partners and senior attorneys on strategy and client service initiatives.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.

• Admitted to practice in California.

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in employment counseling and/or litigation.

• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.

• Excellent academic credentials and professional judgment.

• Candidates with a general litigation background and an interest in employment law are encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary range: $195,000 – $230,000, depending on experience.

• Annual billable hours expectation: 1,850 (includes up to 100 hours of approved pro bono work).

• Associates are eligible for a 15% bonus of base compensation upon meeting billable hour expectations, as well as additional discretionary bonuses.

• Hybrid work schedule and professional development support.

This is an excellent opportunity for a mid-level associate to join a collegial and reputable employment practice offering substantive work, mentorship, and long-term growth potential.

Apply through Direct Counsel to learn more and be considered for this opportunity.