Mid-level Employment Litigation Associate

Job Overview
A highly respected law firm is seeking a Midlevel Employment Litigation Associate to join its employment and labor law practice in Portland, Oregon. This role is ideal for an attorney with 2 to 5 years of litigation experience, particularly representing employers in both public and private sectors. The position offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment on high-impact matters involving wage and hour compliance, discrimination, retaliation claims, and employment policies. This hybrid position allows for flexibility while supporting immediate client needs.

Location

• Portland, OR

Duties

• Represent employers in employment-related litigation in both state and federal courts

• Handle agency proceedings related to labor and employment matters

• Develop litigation strategy, manage motion practice, and oversee discovery

• Draft and revise employment handbooks, policies, and agreements

• Advise clients on wage and hour law, leave policies, disability accommodations, and anti-discrimination regulations

• Maintain client relationships and provide timely, strategic legal advice

• Work with team members to meet client demands in a fast-paced environment

Requirements

• 2–5 years of experience in employment litigation and labor law

• Background in representing employers in public or private sectors

• Experience with courtroom advocacy, motion practice, and trial strategy

• Strong analytical and organizational skills

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team

• High level of responsiveness and attention to detail

• Oregon bar admission required

• Washington or California bar admission (preferred)

Education

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

Certifications

• Active license to practice law in Oregon

• Additional licensure in Washington or California (preferred)

Skills

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Strong legal research and drafting abilities

• Strategic problem-solving and case analysis skills

• Professional judgment under pressure

• Client-focused with a collaborative mindset

Benefits

• Discretionary annual bonus potential

• Hybrid work schedule flexibility

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Paid time off and holidays

• Professional development and CLE reimbursement

• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through firm-supported initiatives

This firm has been a power player in the Pacific Northwest for a long time. While this firm practices in numerous areas, its strongest areas are in the corporate context where it does truly exceptional work. Their clients are a diverse group of domestic and international corporations, government entities, and non-profit organizations. This firm is a lifestyle type of firm in many respects and wants its associates to have lives outside of the law. An additional aspect of this firm is that it is consistently able to attract and retain candidates who are the cream of the crop. The firm takes its recruiting very seriously and truly makes a major effort to make the associates who join the firm feel welcome as members of the firm. The firm's training is also very solid. Attorneys are encouraged to get involved in numerous outside activities and appear to do so on a regular and ongoing basis.