Associate Global Equity Compensation and Employment

A law firm seeks a talented Global Equity Compensation and Employment Associate with 3–5 years of experience to join its multidisciplinary Employment Law team. This role involves counseling multinational and emerging company employers on various equity compensation and employment law matters. The ideal candidate will possess experience with cross-border issues, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for working with fast-growing companies in the technology sector.

Duties

• Provide counsel on global equity compensation programs, including stock options (SO), restricted stock units (RSU), and employee stock purchase plans (ESPP).
• Advise on securities and foreign exchange filings related to equity compensation plans.
• Assist with drafting and implementing employment agreements, policies, and compensation-related documents.
• Address employment-related matters such as leaves of absence, accommodations, contractor classifications, and onboarding processes.
• Conduct multi-jurisdictional research, prepare multi-country analyses, and manage global project teams.
• Counsel on employment aspects of mergers and acquisitions, including due diligence for equity and employment matters.
• Deliver client insights through written reports, client meetings, and presentations.
• Support the development of policies, handbooks, bonus, and commission plans for multinational clients.

Requirements

• Experience: 3–5 years of legal practice in employee equity compensation or employment counseling, with cross-border experience preferred.
• Expertise: Familiarity with legal matters related to equity plans, global compliance, and employment contracts.
• Bar Membership: Admission to the state bar in the practicing location.
• Attributes: Strong interpersonal skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and the ability to manage complex projects.

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active bar membership in good standing in CA.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multi-faceted, global legal projects.
• Strong organizational and research capabilities.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, with a focus on delivering exceptional client service.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision, and life).
• Mental health resources and family care benefits (child, elder, and pet care).
• Disability benefits (short-term and long-term).
• Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• 401(k) retirement program with employer contributions.
• Generous leave policies, including parental leave and paid holidays.
• Flexible Time Off (FTO) program to promote work-life balance.

This preeminent California firm offers a full-service practice which covers a number of areas, including: Litigation, Corporate, Tax, Environmental, Labor & Employment, and Real Estate. The Sacto office has strong litigation, IP, government, securities, finance, and antitrust practices. 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.