REMOTE Labor & Employment Associate

***THIS POSITION IS REMOTE IN CA OR HYBRID IN OUR OAKLAND OFFICE***

We are an Am Law 100 full service law firm helping businesses, institutions, and individuals navigate complex legal and commercial challenges. Our work is consistently recognized by respected industry observers for quality, insight, and client service. We combine sophisticated counsel with a collaborative culture built on trust, respect, and a commitment to supporting clients and communities. Joining our team means contributing to meaningful work while developing your skills alongside experienced colleagues who value fresh thinking, strong relationships, and shared success.

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled Labor and Employment Associate to join our litigation team. The ideal candidate will handle complex employment disputes, including PAGA representative actions, discrimination, retaliation, and harassment claims. This role focuses on plaintiff and defense-side litigation work: case development, motion practice, discovery, depositions, trials, and client counseling on employment compliance and risk mitigation.

Compensation:

Up to $300k base + bonuses

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse litigation docket involving employment law matters, including PAGA representative actions, discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and wage-and-hour claims.
• Draft and file pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, briefs, settlement agreements, and other court documents.
• Conduct legal research and prepare strong, persuasive legal memoranda and motion papers on complex employment law issues.
• Lead and participate in depositions, mediations, settlement negotiations, and courtroom hearings and trials when necessary.
• Develop case strategy and collaborate with partners, associates, and support staff to manage workloads, budgets, and deadlines.
• Counsel clients on employment compliance, internal investigations, policies, and risk-reduction strategies related to discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and other workplace issues.
• Coordinate and manage third-party vendors and experts, including investigators and forensic specialists, as needed.
• Maintain accurate case files, track deadlines, and communicate regularly with clients regarding case status, strategy, and settlement options.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active admission to the California bar (or ability to become admitted promptly).
• 4+ years of litigation experience in labor and employment law; experience handling PAGA representative actions strongly preferred.
• Proven experience litigating discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and other employment claims in state and federal court.
• Strong drafting skills and experience preparing pleadings, motions, discovery, and trial materials.
• Demonstrated ability to manage depositions, hearings, mediations, and trial preparation.
• Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing skills, with attention to detail.
• Effective client-facing skills, professional judgment, and the ability to explain complex legal issues clearly to clients and colleagues.
• Ability to manage multiple matters, prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and much more.