Labor & Employment Associate Attorney

Labor & Employment Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Labor & Employment Associate Attorney to join a leading Am Law firm in San Diego, California. This is an excellent opportunity for a 2nd-3rd year associate attorney to join a nationally recognized Labor & Employment practice representing employers in complex litigation and day-to-day employment counseling matters.

Responsibilities

• Represent employers in California wage and hour class actions and PAGA litigation.
• Handle employment litigation involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and related claims.
• Provide practical, day-to-day counseling to clients on a broad range of employment law issues.
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other court filings.
• Manage all phases of discovery, including written discovery and depositions.
• Assist with trial preparation in both state and federal courts.
• Participate in settlement conferences, mediations, and negotiations.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships while collaborating closely with attorneys across the practice group.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the California Bar.
• 2-3 years of labor and employment law experience.
• Experience handling California wage and hour class actions and PAGA matters.
• Experience litigating discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and related employment claims.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Experience with discovery, motion practice, and drafting substantive litigation documents.
• Trial preparation experience in state and federal court is preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment with a strong commitment to client service.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $240,000-$260,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Life and disability insurance
• Adoption assistance
• Backup dependent care
• Additional firm-sponsored benefits