Job Title: Associate Attorney – Employment Litigation

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: Full-Time, Hybrid

About the Firm

Founded in 1991, our client-focused law firm provides aggressive, strategic representation to businesses across California and beyond. The Employment Litigation Group regularly represents management in all aspects of labor and employment law, including employment practices liability (EPL) litigation, wage and hour disputes, collective bargaining, discrimination and harassment claims, wrongful termination, workplace safety, and regulatory compliance. The team handles cases in administrative proceedings, arbitrations, and state and federal courts, while also providing day-to-day counsel to employers on personnel management, benefits, and litigation avoidance.

Position Overview

We are seeking an Associate Attorney – Employment Litigation to join our Los Angeles-based team. The role involves representing management in employment-related litigation, providing proactive client counsel, and working on cases from inception through resolution. The ideal candidate will have strong legal research, writing, and advocacy skills, with the ability to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

·       Represent management in EPL, wage and hour, discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination matters.

·       Handle cases in administrative forums, arbitration, and state and federal court.

·       Draft pleadings, discovery, motions, and briefs.

·       Conduct legal research and assist in litigation strategy development.

·       Take and defend depositions; attend hearings, mediations, and settlement conferences.

·       Advise clients on compliance, workplace policies, and litigation avoidance.

·       Stay current on California and federal employment law updates.

Qualifications

·       Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.

·       Active member of the California State Bar in good standing.

·       2–5 years of experience in employment litigation (management-side preferred).

·       Strong knowledge of California and federal employment laws.

·       Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills.

·       Courtroom, deposition, and motion practice experience preferred.

·       Ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.

·       Strong interpersonal and client communication skills.

Compensation & Benefits

·       Salary Range: $100,000 – $175,000 annually, depending on experience; higher compensation may be considered for exceptional candidates.

·       Health, dental, and vision insurance.

·       401(k) retirement plan.

·       Paid time off and holidays.

Work Schedule

·       Hybrid schedule: Combination of in-office days in Los Angeles and remote work.

How to Apply

Submit your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample for consideration.

Disclaimer

This job description provides only a summary of the typical functions associated with this role and is not intended to represent an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all responsibilities, tasks, or duties. The actual responsibilities, tasks, and duties assigned may differ from those outlined, and additional duties may be assigned. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice. SmartHire is not legally responsible for any changes to the jobholder’s responsibilities or activities implemented by our clients that differ from those described herein.

SmartHire is posting this position on behalf of our client, and the salary range provided is determined by the client. Actual compensation offered will depend on various factors determined by the hiring company, including candidate qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and internal equity considerations. SmartHire is not legally responsible for any changes in salary, benefits, or bonuses made by our clients.