Corporate Counsel - Employment Law

Position Overview

The Corporate Counsel will serve as an in‑house attorney and handle a variety of legal matters and projects as a key member of a small, well‑regarded law function in a growing, thriving company. Reporting to the Vice President, General Counsel, this role will focus on risk identification and mitigation in the context of opportunity enablement and advancement of business objectives. Day‑to‑day activities typically involve collaborating with and supporting HR, managing our employment litigation docket, drafting and reviewing customer and vendor agreements, maintaining our corporate governance compliance, and assisting our Operations business partners. This is an extremely important position in our organization and we believe it represents a tremendous opportunity for professional growth and advancement for the right individual.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

Employment and Labor

Advises regarding employment issues/rights while recommending legal action; mediates between employees and CJL and represents CJL in mediations or agency proceedings. Works together with HR on separation determinations and associated documentation, both for individuals and layoffs. Collaborates with the HR function and outside counsel to judge the merits of claims filed against the company and works with appropriate management to define the defense and recommends settlements of disputes where warranted in the following employment areas:

• Workers’ compensation
• Termination of employment
• Sexual harassment
• Workplace safety
• Wage and overtime standards
• Privacy rights
• Discrimination against employees based on age, ancestry, color, creed, disability, marital status, medical conditions, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.
• Employee benefits including leaves of absence

Corporate Governance / Compliance

Works with General Counsel to prepare board resolutions and other required governance documents. Manages legal compliance with states and agencies, including business licensing, state authorities, and transportation licensing. Advises on any international compliance requirements or developments requiring action. Works with HQ to support global compliance initiatives.

Real Estate

• Reviews leases and other real estate agreements; identifies risks.
• Works with Finance to ensure payments are consistent with lease obligations.

Customer/Vendor Contracts

• Drafts, reviews and negotiates a wide range of commercial agreements, including customer contracts, vendor contracts, and consulting agreements.

General Legal Support

Provides legal support and advice to all business areas of the organization. Advises Business Development, Customer Development, Finance and Operations managers on contract status, legal risks, and business terms of various deals. Collaborates with Finance, IT, and Business Managers on managing overall company risk in areas of insurance, cyber liability, product liability, real estate, and physical assets. Assists the General Counsel with advancing company strategic initiatives.

Manage Outside Counsel

Manages outside counsel representing company on claims and litigation matters, including facilitating information gathering and consistent strategy.

Required Qualifications

• Law Degree
• Admission to the Illinois Bar
• General corporate law experience required
• Prior experience with employment law (especially relating to hourly workers) required
• 4‑8 years of experience in a law firm and/or corporate legal department

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of the Supply Chain / Logistics business and/or international company exposure is strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Sit for prolonged periods of time at a desk while working on a computer.
• Use hands and fingers to operate a keyboard, mouse, and telephone.
• Speak and hear clearly in person, virtually, and over the phone.
• Occasionally stand, walk, reach, stoop, or lift up to 10 pounds.

Pay, Benefits and More

• Salary: Minimum base salary of $165,000, subject to skills, qualifications, and experience.
• 20% AIP Bonus
• Competitive compensation package.
• Full health insurance (medical, dental and vision), 401(k), Life insurance, tuition assistance, PTO and more.
• Growing company with a performance record that continues to climb.
• Open‑door work environment.
• High performance culture focused on a growth mindset.
• Opportunities for advancement.

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment that typically uses computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and printers. The work environment is usually quiet to moderate in noise level and climate‑controlled.

Location/Remote Eligibility

This is a hybrid role based out of Des Plaines, IL. Regular on‑site presence is required four days per week, or as otherwise directed by the company.

Schedule

Regular work hours are 8 am to 5 pm, with occasional evenings, weekends, or holidays based on business needs. Flexible hours may be required to support deadlines or cross‑functional collaboration.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity, equity, and an inclusive workplace. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any type, including but not limited to race, religion, ancestry, disability, gender, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law. CJ Logistics participates in the E‑Verify program in certain locations. Note that we do not offer visa sponsorship or support for work authorization.