Labor & Employment Associate Attorney

Labor & Employment AssociateDirect Counsel is seeking a Labor & Employment Associate with 4–6 years of experience to join a nationally recognized Labor & Employment practice. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney interested in representing employers in sophisticated employment litigation and traditional labor matters while working alongside highly experienced practitioners on complex workplace issues.The ideal candidate will have a strong background in employment litigation, labor relations, and employer counseling, with experience handling matters involving federal and state employment laws and the National Labor Relations Act.LocationColumbus, OHPeriodic travel is required.ResponsibilitiesRepresent employers in state and federal employment litigation.Handle matters involving: Title VII, ADA, FMLA, ADEA, Comparable state employment lawsDevelop litigation strategy and manage cases through discovery, motion practice, hearings, and trial preparation.Advise employers on day-to-day employment law issues and risk management.Support collective bargaining negotiations.Represent employers in: NLRB unfair labor practice proceedings, Representation proceedings, Grievance arbitrationsCounsel employers during union organizing campaigns.Research and advise clients on issues arising under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), including protected concerted activity and work stoppages.Prepare and deliver labor and employment law training for management teams.Collaborate with attorneys across a national labor and employment practice on complex client matters.QualificationsJ.D. from an accredited law school with a strong academic record.Active admission to the Ohio Bar.4–6 years of labor and employment law experience.Experience handling employment litigation involving federal and state employment statutes.Strong knowledge of labor and employment laws, including the National Labor Relations Act.Experience with litigation strategy, discovery, motion practice, and hearings.Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and communication skills.Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.Preferred QualificationsExperience serving as second chair in: Grievance arbitrations, NLRB unfair labor practice proceedings, Representation proceedingsExperience supporting collective bargaining negotiations.Experience advising employers during union organizing campaigns.Experience presenting management training on labor and employment law topics.Strong client counseling and project management skills.Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive compensation based on experience.Performance-based bonus opportunities.Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.401(k) retirement plan.Paid holidays and generous paid time off.Professional development, mentorship, and continuing legal education opportunities.Clear opportunities for long-term career advancement and partnership.Why This OpportunityThis is an outstanding opportunity to join a highly regarded Labor & Employment practice representing employers in complex litigation, traditional labor matters, and day-to-day workplace counseling. Attorneys benefit from meaningful client interaction, sophisticated legal work, direct mentorship from experienced practitioners, and a collaborative environment that supports professional growth and long-term career development.Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.