Employment & Executive Compensation Associate

A law firm seeks an experienced employment attorney to join a collaborative team in Chicago, IL. This role emphasizes advisory work in employment and executive compensation, providing counsel to employers on a range of workforce-related matters.

Duties

• Counsel employers on adherence to federal, state, and municipal employment regulations

• Draft and review workplace agreements, including offer letters, employee handbooks, severance arrangements, and non-competition covenants

• Advise on and negotiate restrictive covenants and confidentiality provisions

• Guide clients through employment aspects of corporate transactions (e.g., mergers, acquisitions, restructurings)

• Support clients on wage and hour compliance, including classification and pay-structure issues

• Assist in formulating strategies to prevent discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop internal policies and practices that mitigate legal risk

• Provide occasional guidance on traditional labor matters and union-related concerns

• Train and mentor junior associates on best practices in employment counseling

Requirements

• 3–6 years of hands-on experience in employment law advising employers (in-house or law firm)

• Proven track record drafting employment documents and counseling on compliance issues

• Familiarity with discrimination, wage and hour, restrictive covenant, and other workplace-related claims

• Strong aptitude for analyzing evolving labor and employment regulations at the federal, state, and local levels

• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and maintain a business-oriented perspective

• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills for routine interaction with clients and colleagues

• Capacity to thrive in a team-driven environment and contribute to a culture of collaboration and innovation

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school

• Academic coursework or practical experience in labor and employment law is preferred

Certifications

• Admission to the Illinois Bar (or pending admission)

• Membership in employment-focused bar sections or associations (e.g., Chicago Bar Association Labor & Employment Section) is beneficial

Skills

• Strong analytical reasoning and problem-solving aptitude, especially in interpreting complex statutes and regulations

• Proficient drafting and negotiation abilities for contracts, policies, and advisory memoranda

• Business development mindset, with an entrepreneurial approach to client service

• Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously and meet tight deadlines

• Collaborative spirit, willing to share knowledge, and support team-oriented objectives

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans

• Eligibility for performance-based bonuses

• Support for professional development and continuing legal education

• Opportunities for growth and advancement within the practice group

This firm specializes in the following practice areas: Bankruptcy, Corporate and Securities, Employment Law, Finance & Banking, Homeowners Associations, Intellectual Property, Litigation, Real Estate, Taxation, Technology, and Wealth Transfer.