Employment Litigation Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking an Employment Litigation Associate Attorney to join a highly regarded Am Law firm's Employment Practice in Los Angeles or San Francisco. This is an excellent opportunity for a midlevel attorney to work on a diverse range of sophisticated employment litigation matters, representing employers across multiple industries. The role offers significant client interaction, hands-on litigation experience, and the opportunity to collaborate with experienced attorneys on complex and high-profile cases.

Responsibilities

• Manage and support all phases of employment litigation in state and federal courts.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, and other litigation-related documents.
• Conduct legal research and assist in developing case strategy.
• Take and defend party and witness depositions.
• Participate in mediations, arbitrations, hearings, and court appearances.
• Advise clients on employment law issues, risk management, and workplace compliance.
• Collaborate closely with partners and litigation teams on sophisticated employment disputes.
• Handle matters involving single-plaintiff claims, wage and hour class actions, PAGA actions, discrimination, harassment, trade secret disputes, and workplace investigations.
• Support business development efforts and help cultivate strong client relationships.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Active admission to the California Bar.
• 3–5 years of employment litigation experience.
• Experience handling California employment law matters.
• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment.
• Prior experience at a law firm or sophisticated in-house legal department is preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to exceptional client service and collaborative teamwork.

Why Apply?

This position offers the opportunity to work on sophisticated employment litigation matters for leading employers while receiving meaningful responsibility, direct client exposure, and strong mentorship. Attorneys benefit from a collaborative and inclusive culture that encourages professional development, leadership opportunities, and long-term career growth.

Compensation: $225,000 – $330,000, commensurate with experience, plus bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits package.