Junior-Midlevel Executive Compensation, Benefits and ERISA Associate

Job Overview:
A prestigious law firm is seeking a Junior to Mid-Level Associate to join its Executive Compensation, Benefits, and ERISA practice. The ideal candidate will have between 2 to 6 years of experience advising on executive compensation and employee benefits matters, particularly in connection with mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and corporate restructuring. This role offers the opportunity to work with high-profile transactions and clients, providing counsel on tax, ERISA, and securities law implications. 

Location:

• Palo Alto, CA

Duties:

• Provide legal support for M&A, private equity, and restructuring transactions with a focus on executive compensation, employee benefits, and ERISA matters

• Conduct due diligence and review related transactional documentation

• Draft and negotiate equity compensation plans, employment and severance agreements, and related documents

• Advise on IRC § 280G and golden parachute rules

• Counsel clients on SEC disclosure rules relating to executive compensation

• Advise on tax-qualified retirement and welfare benefit plans

• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary legal teams to address complex client needs

• Conduct legal research and prepare written analyses related to employee benefit matters

Requirements:

• 2–6 years of experience in executive compensation, employee benefits, and ERISA law

• Strong background in transactional work, especially in the context of M&A and private equity

• Experience working with publicly listed companies on SEC compensation disclosures

• Familiarity with IRC § 280G and related tax issues

• Additional experience in retirement and health plan compliance is a plus

• Ability to manage multiple transactions and deadlines efficiently

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited U.S. law school

• Outstanding academic credentials required

Certifications:

• Admission to practice law and in good standing in California

Skills:

• Exceptional analytical and legal writing skills

• Strong verbal communication and negotiation abilities

• Ability to work effectively within a team and in fast-paced transactional environments

• Attention to detail and strong organizational capabilities

• Client-focused mindset with a high standard of professional ethics

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, etc.)

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid time off and holidays

• Opportunities for career advancement in a premier legal environment

Lauded as an excellent firm for which to work, this firm has been cited as a top firm for minority and diversity hiring. In the same vein, the firm is praised for its open culture and the wonderful individuals who make it up. Throughout its history, the firm has featured excellent real estate, business, litigation, tax, and employment practices, with the latter being an especially strong suit. With its origins in Los Angeles, the firm has offices across the world and industry-leading clients from over 80 countries, but has not lost its open and friendly culture.