Employment Law Associate

Job Overview
A top-tier law firm is seeking a Managing Associate with 3-6 years of experience to join its Employment Group in the San Francisco office. This role focuses on employment litigation and counseling matters, including individual employment disputes, class actions, and representative claims. The position offers the opportunity to work closely with corporate clients, handle significant litigation responsibilities, and contribute to complex and high-profile employment law matters within a collaborative team environment.

Duties

• Handle pre-litigation employment disputes and complex employment litigation matters
• Work on single-plaintiff employment cases, systemic discrimination claims, wage and hour class actions, and Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) representative actions
• Respond to administrative agency charges and related proceedings
• Advise corporate clients on a wide range of employment law issues
• Participate in the management and strategy of complex legal matters
• Conduct and defend depositions as part of case preparation
• Appear in court for hearings and argue motions
• Assist in mediations and other dispute resolution proceedings
• Collaborate with colleagues on case strategy and legal analysis
• Maintain strong client relationships and contribute to ongoing legal advisory work

Requirements

• 3-6 years of litigation experience, preferably at a comparable law firm
• Ability to manage complex employment matters and work on high-stakes litigation
• Strong interpersonal abilities and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively
• Demonstrated initiative, creativity, and practical problem-solving approach

Education and Certifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active membership in the California State Bar

Skills

• Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing abilities
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage complex legal matters and multiple responsibilities simultaneously
• Effective collaboration and teamwork skills
• Strong attention to detail and strategic thinking

Benefits

• Eligibility for an annual discretionary merit bonus based on firm and individual performance
• Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Mental wellness programs and support services
• Family-related benefits, including childcare, eldercare, and pet care support
• Short- and long-term disability coverage and parental leave benefits
• Health savings account contributions and flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Flexible Time Off program and paid holidays
• Access to mentoring, training programs, retreats, academies, and professional development opportunities

This preeminent San Francisco firm offers a full-service practice which covers a number of areas, including: Litigation, Corporate, Tax, Environmental, Labor & Employment, and Real Estate. Many of the firm's top clients are investment banks, but, in recent years, the firm has expanded its intellectual property litigation practice. The atmosphere is collegial, but slightly more conservative than most Bay Area firms. Salaries are in line with other top Bay Area firms, and the firm provides a $10,000 bonus for all lawyers who bill at least 1,950 hours, with additional money based on three separate billable-hour levels above 1,950.