Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

✨ Associate Attorney – Public Entity/Employment Defense | San Diego, CA

(Onsite with Flexible Hybrid Options)

On behalf of a boutique litigation firm in San Diego, Talentry is pleased to be looking for an Attorney with a strong and expanding public entity defense practice . The firm is highly regarded for representing school districts and other public agencies in complex employment litigation, along with a broader practice spanning business litigation and related disputes.

With decades of combined experience, the partners bring big-firm training into a collaborative, agile boutique environment—delivering sophisticated advocacy for public-sector clients without big-firm bureaucracy. Associates gain meaningful responsibility, direct partner mentorship, courtroom exposure, and hands-on experience defending public entities in high-impact matters.

This is a direct-hire opportunity and an excellent role for an Employment Attorney interested in public sector defense who wants to accelerate their career before year-end.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

? Direct work with seasoned trial attorneys focused on public entity defense

? Early responsibility and meaningful litigation ownership

? Exposure to complex, precedent-shaping public employment matters

? Collaborative, low-ego culture with real growth potential

? Hybrid flexibility available after onboarding

What You’ll Work On

You’ll manage and support a public entity–focused employment litigation caseload , including:

⚖️ Defense of public agencies in employment disputes

⚖️ Harassment, retaliation, and discrimination claims (FEHA)

⚖️ Wage & hour, PAGA, and classification matters involving public employers

⚖️ Wrongful termination and whistleblower actions

⚖️ Drafting pleadings, motions, and discovery

⚖️ Depositions, mediations, hearings, and trial preparation

(Attorneys with limited public entity experience are encouraged to apply if their litigation fundamentals are strong.)

What We’re Looking For

✔️ Active California Bar license

✔️ 2–8 years of civil litigation experience (public entity or employment defense preferred)

✔️ Strong writing, research, and case-management skills

✔️ Interest in public sector law and government defense work

✔️ Motivation to take ownership and work closely with partners

Compensation & Benefits

Excellent compensation and benefits!

? Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

? 401(k) + Profit Sharing

? Professional development and partner mentorship

?️ Full-time onsite in San Diego with hybrid flexibility