Mid-Level Associate Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation

Job Overview:
A law firm seeks a mid-level associate attorney to join its nationally recognized Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation practice. This role offers flexibility in office location, with opportunities to work from offices in Boston, MA; Chicago, IL; Columbus, OH; Los Angeles, CA; Nashville, TN; Newark, NJ; New York, NY; Pittsburgh, PA; Princeton, NJ; or Washington, DC.

The ideal candidate will have at least three years of focused experience handling employee benefits and compensation matters, including retirement plans, executive pay arrangements, health and welfare plans, and benefits issues tied to corporate transactions or workforce changes. The firm values professionals who can distill complex legal concepts into clear, actionable advice for clients and who thrive in collaborative, innovative environments.

Duties:

• Counsel employers on a variety of employee benefits issues, including qualified retirement plans, executive compensation, health and welfare plans, and fringe benefits.
• Advise clients on their legal obligations under ERISA and other applicable laws and regulations.
• Assist with employee benefits aspects of mergers, acquisitions, restructurings, and downsizing events.
• Draft and review plan documents, governance materials, employee notices, and policies to ensure legal compliance and operational efficiency.
• Conduct legal research and draft memoranda addressing emerging and complex benefits issues.
• Partner with clients to develop strategies that align with both regulatory requirements and business goals.
• Contribute to educational presentations, both internally and for clients, to share knowledge on evolving benefits laws.

Requirements:

• At least 3 years of experience working on employee benefits and compensation matters, preferably within a law firm or equivalent advisory environment.
• Direct experience advising on ERISA compliance and handling qualified retirement plans, health and welfare programs, and executive compensation.
• Prior exposure to benefits considerations during corporate transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions, is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to offer creative solutions to complex legal issues.
• Demonstrated ability to translate legal analysis into clear, practical guidance for clients.
• Excellent writing, research, and oral communication skills, including the ability to present information effectively to clients and internal teams.
• Admission to the bar in at least one of the following states or jurisdictions is required: California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, or Washington, DC.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Strong academic track record preferred.

Certifications:

• Active and good standing bar membership in one of the required jurisdictions: California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, or Washington, DC.

Skills:

• Strong legal research and analytical abilities.
• Proficient in drafting and editing legal documents.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-based environment.
• Strong client service orientation, with a focus on clear communication and practical solutions.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Comfortable managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Interest in contributing to a fast-paced, innovative, and entrepreneurial firm culture.

Benefits:

• Flexible office location options across multiple major U.S. cities.
• Opportunity to work with a nationally recognized team in employee benefits and executive compensation law.
• Professional development programs and ongoing training.
• Collaborative work environment with a focus on innovation and client service excellence.