Labor Associate (Management-Side Labor)

Direct Counsel is seeking a Labor Associate with 4-6 years of dedicated management-side labor law experience to join a nationally recognized Labor Practice in Chicago. This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney looking to focus exclusively on traditional labor law matters while representing sophisticated employers in labor relations, collective bargaining, arbitration, and NLRB proceedings.
The ideal candidate will have significant experience handling labor matters independently, including first-chair arbitration experience and direct client counseling on labor relations issues.
Responsibilities

• Represent management-side clients in traditional labor law matters
• Serve as first chair in grievance arbitration proceedings
• Handle unfair labor practice matters before the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
• Advise employers on union organizing campaigns and labor relations strategy
• Support and participate in collective bargaining negotiations
• Conduct management training regarding compliance with the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA)
• Provide day-to-day labor counseling to employers across a variety of industries
• Collaborate with attorneys across a national labor practice on complex labor matters

Qualifications

• 4-6 years of dedicated management-side labor law experience
• First-chair grievance arbitration experience
• Experience handling unfair labor practice proceedings
• Experience practicing before the NLRB
• First-chair NLRB hearing experience preferred
• Experience advising employers on union organizing campaigns
• Experience supporting collective bargaining negotiations
• Strong writing, analytical, and advocacy skills
• Ability to independently manage matters and lead proceedings
• Spanish language skills preferred

Compensation & Benefits

• Expected salary range: $285,000 - $345,000
• Compensation is determined based on experience, education, training, and other relevant factors
• Performance- and hours-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Parental leave and family care benefits
• Wellness and disability programs
• Hybrid work environment
• Significant client exposure and substantive responsibility
• Professional development and mentorship opportunities
• Clear path to partnership and long-term career growth

Why This Opportunity

• Join a nationally recognized labor practice
• Focus exclusively on traditional labor law matters
• Work directly with sophisticated national clients
• Receive meaningful responsibility and leadership opportunities
• Strong mentorship and professional development programs
• Clear advancement opportunities within a growing practice

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.