Mid-/Senior-level Associate Structured Transactions

A law firm seeks a highly skilled midlevel or senior associate to join its structured transactions practice group in Washington, DC. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with solid experience in corporate or finance transactions. A background in structured finance and securitization, as well as experience in RMBS/ABS/CLO/financing, will be highly valued, though not mandatory. The successful applicant will play an integral role in representing clients in complex structured transactions. This position also offers flexibility, with the option to be based in Chicago or New York offices.

Duties:

• Provide expert legal counsel on structured finance transactions, including asset-backed securities (ABS), collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), and residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS)
• Draft and negotiate key transaction documents, including securitization agreements and financing arrangements
• Advise clients on regulatory and compliance issues related to securitization and structured finance deals
• Lead and manage due diligence processes for complex financing structures
• Collaborate with other practice groups to provide integrated solutions for clients' transactional needs
• Represent clients in negotiations, addressing both legal and business aspects of structured transactions
• Maintain strong client relationships and serve as a trusted advisor on strategic financial matters
• Stay current on market trends, regulatory changes, and innovations in structured finance to ensure clients are always informed
• Manage and mentor junior associates and support staff in the practice group

Requirements:

• Experience in corporate and/or finance transactions, particularly in structured finance and securitization
• Experience with RMBS, ABS, CLO, or similar financing structures is highly desirable
• Strong understanding of financial products and transaction structures in a legal context
• Ability to manage complex legal and business issues while delivering practical solutions
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a strong ability to negotiate and draft transactional documents
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Commitment to delivering high-quality legal services with attention to detail

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Strong academic credentials

Certifications:

• Active membership in the bar of any state (preferably Washington, DC, New York, or Illinois)

Skills:

• Expertise in structured finance transactions, including securitizations, ABS, RMBS, CLOs, and financing arrangements
• Exceptional drafting and negotiation skills, with experience preparing complex legal documents
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, able to synthesize complex financial and legal information
• Ability to handle multiple matters and clients while meeting demanding deadlines
• Strong business acumen and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively
• Experience mentoring and managing junior lawyers and legal staff
• Commitment to providing excellent client service with a focus on long-term relationships

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance options (medical, dental, vision)
• 401(k) plan with firm contributions
• Generous paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and personal days)
• Paid parental leave and bereavement leave
• Access to employee assistance programs and wellness resources
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading practice in structured transactions. If you have the experience and drive to work on high-stakes financial deals in a collaborative and supportive environment, we encourage you to apply.

One of DC's most powerful firms is this one. Truly an international giant in every sense of the word, business and finance, M&A, labor law and litigation reign supreme here although the IP practice is coming into its own also. Like many other large firms attrition is high at times, but overall the associates here are well-credentialed and well paid. In DC, this firm's litigation section, especially with respect to technology and intellectual property disputes, tops the list in terms of prestige. However, this is one of the few firms that virtually guarantees great work and top-notch training, regardless of the practice area.