Labor & Employment Associate (Defense-Side)

Location: Los Angeles, CA or Irvine, CA (Hybrid) | Compensation: $150,000 – $215,000 base | Equity: Competitive | Hiring: 2 candidates About The Role We are looking for a Labor and Employment Associate with 3–7 years of defense-side experience to join our growing team. We are seeking a passionate, team-oriented attorney who is looking for a long-term home to develop their career, gain substantive trial and arbitration experience, and become a key part of our collaborative, family-like culture. What You'll Be Doing Run active employment defense matters day-to-day, from single-plaintiff cases to PAGA and class actions. Lead discovery, including drafting and arguing motions and taking/defending depositions. Gain significant, hands‑on arbitration and trial experience, with opportunities to second‑chair and quickly take on more responsibility. Advise and counsel a variety of California employers on complex employment law issues. Work directly with partners and clients, helping to shape case strategy from start to finish. Key Requirements 3–7 years of post‑bar litigation experience in California employment law. Experience must be exclusively on the defense side; no candidates with plaintiff‑side experience. Demonstrated proficiency in discovery, motion practice, and case management. Exposure to PAGA and class action litigation is highly preferred. A collaborative, team‑player mentality with a genuine passion for employment law and desire for a long‑term career path. Hybrid Work Policy The Orange County office requires a minimum of 3 days in‑office in Irvine, CA. The Los Angeles office is more flexible and remote‑friendly. Visa sponsorship: Not available Why Candidates Should Join Boutique firm with big law experience: Founded by former AmLaw 100 attorneys who bring sophisticated litigation experience in a collaborative boutique environment. Real trial and arbitration opportunities: Associates regularly second‑chair federal jury trials and argue summary judgment motions — not just document review. Clear partnership track: Multiple associates get promoted to senior counsel and partner every year with transparent advancement criteria. Strong work‑life balance culture: 1800 billable hour requirement with generous discretionary bonuses and firm‑wide retreats in Vegas. Mentorship and development focus: Monthly TADA program for associate development plus dedicated mentor matching with partners. #J-18808-Ljbffr David Joseph & Company