Junior-Midlevel Executive Compensation, Benefits and ERISA Associate

Job Overview:
A highly regarded international law firm is seeking a Junior to Mid-Level Associate with 2–6 years of experience to join its Executive Compensation, Benefits, and ERISA practice. This role is suited for attorneys with a strong background in M&A, private equity, and corporate restructuring transactions, particularly from the perspective of executive compensation and employee benefits. The associate will provide legal counsel on complex transactions, compliance, and disclosure matters.

Location:

• New York, NY

Duties:

• Advise on executive compensation and employee benefits issues in M&A, private equity, and restructuring transactions

• Conduct due diligence and draft and negotiate transaction-related agreements

• Address IRC § 280G matters and prepare related analyses and disclosures

• Draft and review equity compensation plans, employment agreements, and severance packages

• Counsel clients on SEC compensation disclosure requirements for public companies

• Provide guidance on tax-qualified retirement and welfare plan compliance

• Support broader employment law matters related to executive compensation

• Collaborate with deal teams to provide integrated legal counsel on high-value transactions

Requirements:

• 2–6 years of experience practicing executive compensation and employee benefits law

• Prior work on corporate transactions involving executive compensation and ERISA matters

• Familiarity with public company disclosure requirements under SEC regulations

• Ability to manage complex workstreams and contribute to large-scale deals

• Experience with tax-qualified plans and general employment issues is a plus

Education:

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

• Strong academic record required

Certifications:

• Admitted to practice and in good standing in New York

Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of executive compensation, benefits law, and ERISA

• Strong legal research and analytical writing skills

• Effective communicator with ability to interface with high-level corporate clients

• Strong organizational and time-management abilities

• Detail-oriented and adept at balancing multiple priorities in fast-paced environments

• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a collaborative legal team

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Life and disability insurance options

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid time off and holidays

• Opportunities for advancement within a top-tier global legal practice

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.