ERISA & Executive Benefits/Compensation Associate Attorney (Midlevel to Sr)
Location:
Washington, D.C.
(may also sit in New York, NY; Santa Monica, CA or Los Angeles, CA)
Schedule:
Full-time (1,850 minimum annual billables expectation). A Hybrid 3-2 schedule is the norm for this client
Compensation:
$310,000 to $390,000 base salary with fully comprehensive benefits package, including year-end bonuses around 10-20 %, PTO, health coverage, mental wellness programs, childcare offering and various other ancillary wellness-aligned programs for the firm.
Role Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Midlevel to Senior Associate to join a dynamic ERISA & Executive Compensation practice in Washington, D.C. This position involves advising on sophisticated matters related to equity compensation and executive benefits, with a focus on tax, securities, and employee benefits law. The role offers the opportunity to work with a diverse portfolio of clients, ranging from innovative startups to established multinational corporations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Developing and advising on the design and operation of equity-based and other incentive compensation plans.
- Providing counsel on complex tax and securities issues, including Sections 409A, 280G, and 162(m), related to executive compensation.
- Supporting mergers and acquisitions, SPACs, IPOs, and private equity deals through detailed compensation and benefits analysis.
- Offering guidance on ERISA, COBRA, and benefits compliance, especially in transactional contexts (this is preferred but not mandatory).
- Collaborating with clients, boards, and compensation committees on strategic executive pay initiatives.
Qualifications Required:
- J.D. from an accredited U.S. law school with outstanding academic credentials.
- 4–6 years of law firm experience focusing on executive compensation and/or ERISA.
- Proven ability to lead transaction workstreams or manage equity compensation plans.
- Comprehensive understanding of relevant tax and securities compliance issues.
- Superior writing and communication skills.
- Admission to the D.C. Bar or eligibility to obtain it swiftly is preferred.
Preferred Experience:
- Direct client interaction in regulated industries or with public companies.
- Expertise in golden parachutes, deferred compensation, and proxy disclosure requirements.
- Experience with employee benefits diligence in M&A or capital markets transactions.
- Knowledge of qualified retirement plans and welfare plan compliance is advantageous.
Documentation Required:
All submissions to this client require the following
- Transcripts from the law school from which you have graduated.
- Additional writing samples, deal sheets or list of representative matters.
- Confirmation of authorization to represent you to the client for the specific opportunity
Additional Information:
This opportunity includes a hybrid work option and covers interview expenses. We are committed to equal opportunity employment and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. By submitting your application, you agree to receive updates on your application status. Opt-out options are available at any time.