Senior Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation Associate Attorney

Job Title:

Senior Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation Associate Attorney

Job Overview:

A prestigious law firm located in Washington, DC is actively seeking an experienced legal professional with a strong background in executive compensation and employee benefits law, particularly in the context of corporate transactions. This role offers the opportunity to join a collaborative, high-performing legal team that plays a key role in guiding complex deal structures and advising on equity incentive design, regulatory compliance, and post-transaction benefit integration.

Duties:

• Provide strategic guidance on executive compensation and benefit issues related to mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions

• Draft, analyze, and advise on equity compensation arrangements, including stock options, RSUs, and performance-based awards

• Ensure compliance with applicable securities laws and disclosure requirements in connection with executive pay

• Collaborate with deal teams to assess benefit-related liabilities and transition risks during due diligence

• Manage and lead transactional matters independently with limited supervision from partners

• Support clients with ongoing advisory needs around incentive plans, deferred compensation, and tax considerations under IRC Sections 409A and 280G

• Coordinate with clients’ internal teams and external consultants on plan design, strategy, and implementation

• Remain informed on regulatory and legislative changes affecting executive compensation and employee benefits

Requirements:

• Demonstrated expertise in executive compensation and employee benefits, especially in connection with M&A or private equity transactions

• Significant hands-on experience with equity incentive plans, golden parachutes, deferred compensation arrangements, and relevant disclosure rules

• Ability to lead multiple projects efficiently in a fast-paced, high-demand environment

• Strong legal research, drafting, and negotiation capabilities

• Prior experience handling client communications independently

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Active membership in good standing with a U.S. State Bar, preferably with eligibility to practice in the District of Columbia

Skills:

• Deep understanding of executive pay frameworks and related regulatory environments

• Solid knowledge of corporate transactions, including due diligence and post-acquisition integration

• Exceptional analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities

• Comfortable working in a collaborative team while managing individual responsibilities autonomously

• Ability to simplify complex legal issues for clients and colleagues

• Strong communication and organizational skills

Job Location:

• Washington, DC

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision

• Retirement savings options with firm contributions

• Paid vacation and holiday leave

• Life and disability insurance

• Flexible work arrangements where applicable

• Access to continuing legal education and professional development programs

• Firm-sponsored wellness initiatives and support services

This AmLaw 100 firm is consistently praised by its associates for offering high caliber, interesting work while still allowing for flexibility in work schedule and respect for its associates. The firm has been consistently on the cutting edge of legal developments, and is a leader in the data privacy and cyber security space. Its associates get top-of-the-market pay and complex work. The atmosphere is friendly and the firm values the career development of its associates, offering great training opportunities and mentorship.