Associate Town Counsel - Labor & Employment Law

Job Description

Job Description

Are you a seasoned attorney passionate about public service and employment law? The Town of Brookline is seeking an experienced and dynamic Associate Town Counsel to join our Legal Department, focusing on labor and employment law within a collaborative and high-performing municipal environment.

As Associate Town Counsel, you will work closely with department heads and senior leadership, handling a variety of legal matters including collective bargaining, labor disputes, disciplinary actions, grievances, arbitrations, and employment litigation. You’ll play a vital role in advising the Town on employment law compliance, strategy, and risk mitigation.

Why Brookline?

The Town of Brookline offers a competitive starting salary range of $120,223 - $126,758 along with a flexible hybrid work schedule that promotes work-life balance. As a municipal employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance, plus four weeks of paid vacation annually. Brookline is committed to the professional growth of its employees, offering access to continuing legal education and other development opportunities. With its dynamic and supportive work environment, Brookline is an ideal place to build a meaningful and rewarding legal career in public service.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise department heads, the Director of Human Resources, and senior leadership on employment law, disciplinary matters, grievances, and contract interpretation.
• Serve as lead negotiator or counsel in collective bargaining and labor-management committee matters.
• Represent the Town before Labor arbitration panels, Massachusetts Department of Labor Relations, Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), and in state and federal courts.
• Draft and review legal documents, including collective bargaining agreements, contracts, settlement agreements, Town Meeting articles, policies, and memoranda.
• Provide legal representation at public meetings, including Select Board, Advisory Committee, and Town Meeting.
• Conduct investigations, evaluate legal risk, and resolve employment-related claims.
• Assist in the preparation and trial of litigation, including appellate work in the Supreme Judicial Court and U.S. Court of Appeals.
• Stay current on legal developments through continuing legal education.

Qualifications Education & Experience

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and a minimum of five years of experience in public sector labor and employment law preferred, including collective bargaining, arbitration, employment litigation, and legal compliance counseling.

Licensure

• Member in good standing of the Massachusetts Bar.
• Must be eligible for admission to the U.S. District Court and U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit within 90 days of appointment.

Preferred Knowledge & Skills

The ideal candidate will have a strong working knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 150E, civil service law, and applicable state and federal employment laws. Familiarity with the procedures and practices of the Department of Labor Relations, Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), and the Joint Labor-Management Committee is highly desirable. Success in this role requires exceptional oral and written communication skills, as well as strong judgment, negotiation, and conflict resolution abilities. The ability to manage complex and sensitive legal matters under pressure—particularly those involving high-profile or time-sensitive issues—is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate experience working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including department heads, public boards and commissions, and outside counsel.

Apply Now:

If you're ready to help shape the future of public service in one of Massachusetts' most vibrant and community-focused municipalities please apply today with your confidential letter of interest and resume. Apply by July 23, 2026 for priority consideration.