Associate Attorney ESOP Specialist

A law firm seeks an experienced Associate Attorney specializing in Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) to join its Tax & Benefits practice group in Seattle, WA. This position focuses on providing comprehensive legal services in the design, execution, and compliance of ESOPs, including strategic tax planning and regulatory guidance. The successful candidate will work closely with clients to ensure effective plan development and implementation in a collaborative, client-driven environment that values diversity, growth, and public service.

Duties

• Develop and tailor ESOP plans that meet client-specific goals.
• Implement leveraged ESOP structures, advising on associated tax and financial benefits.
• Provide counsel on tax and ERISA implications related to ESOP transactions.
• Structure business transactions involving ESOPs to ensure legal and financial compliance.
• Conduct detailed tax planning for clients to optimize the benefits of ESOPs.

Requirements

• Experience: 3-5 years of experience in ESOP-related legal matters, employee benefits, or similar areas.
• Academic Credentials: Strong academic background with demonstrated skills in analysis and legal writing.
• Client Service: Exceptional client-service approach with clear communication and interpersonal skills.
• Team Orientation: Enthusiastic about contributing to and building a diverse, collaborative team environment.
• Independence: Ability to manage significant responsibilities and handle tasks independently.

Education

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

Certifications

• Active law license to practice.

Skills

• High-level analytical skills with a focus on tax and ERISA compliance.
• Effective communicator capable of translating complex legal concepts for client understanding.
• Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to handle multiple, complex case files.
• Collaborative mindset, adaptable to a dynamic team environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to prioritize tasks efficiently.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Commuter assistance program.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Paid parental leave.
• Billable credit hours are available for work in diversity, equity, inclusion, and pro bono services.
• Annual performance-based bonus opportunities.

Time for a change? Come up to the Pacific Northwest and really thrive within a diverse group of lawyers and a power pack of national and international clients. This is a long-established firm with an enthusiastic commitment to community endeavors. Here is a real opportunity for professional growth and civic satisfaction for highly qualified, motivated candidates. This is a powerful Pacific Northwest firm and offers associates working here the opportunity to participate in some of the more significant litigation and corporate work in the Pacific Northwest. They are well known for their strong real estate and land use practice, and many of the firm's attorneys who practice in these disciplines are considered recognized leaders in their fields. This firm also has an exceptional bankruptcy practice. This firm also has a diverse client base including large publicly traded corporations as well as closely held businesses and individuals. This firm is considered to have good management, and its management structure is fairly well integrated throughout the firm's offices.