Senior Labor & Employment Associate / Counsel

A leading law firm is seeking highly skilled lateral candidates for the position of Senior Associate to join its Labor & Employment team in Palo Alto, California. The ideal candidate will have expertise across various areas of labor and employment law, including advising clients on both U.S. and international matters. The firm offers an attractive compensation package, professional development programs, and a hybrid work model. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with substantial experience to contribute to high-profile cases and work in a collaborative environment.

Location

• Palo Alto, California

Duties

• Advise clients on a broad range of labor and employment matters, including U.S. and international transactions, executive and management employee hiring and termination, and reductions in force.
• Draft and negotiate employment-related documents such as offer letters, wage theft notices, background checks, separation agreements, and noncompetition covenants.
• Handle sensitive internal investigations (e.g., harassment, discrimination, retaliation, whistleblowing).
• Counsel on the creation and revision of employee handbooks, policies, and procedures.
• Work with labor unions and collective bargaining agreements.
• Respond to employment-related demand letters and negotiate settlement agreements.
• Provide strategic counsel to clients on employment law-related issues, including mergers and acquisitions.

Requirements

• At least 5-10 years of experience in labor and employment law (2014-2019 for Senior Associate).
• Experience in advising on high-stakes employment matters for major corporations.
• Expertise in handling a broad range of employment law issues including discrimination, harassment, and collective bargaining.
• Strong negotiation, drafting, and litigation skills.
• Ability to manage sensitive and complex matters with a high degree of professionalism.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Education

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

Certifications

• Admission to the relevant state bar (California Bar preferred).

Skills

• Strong expertise in labor and employment law, with a focus on transactional and litigation matters.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High-level drafting and negotiating abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Access to an enhanced mentorship program for lateral hires.
• Opportunities for pro bono work and involvement in various community causes.
• Extensive professional development resources.

The Silicon Valley office of this large, prestigious firm primarily represents clients in a wide range of corporate and securities transactions, with particular emphasis on technology transactions, including those involving emerging growth companies. Other practice areas include intellectual property, litigation, and antitrust. The office has managed to remain relatively active during the economic slowdown; according to one associate, No one here has had any trouble finding work. Moreover, the office has managed to retain a very informal atmosphere. Compensation is extremely competitive; bonuses are based on market conditions.