Senior Employment Law Attorney

Job Overview
A prestigious law firm is currently seeking a Senior Employment Law Attorney with over 10 years of experience. This role focuses on providing comprehensive legal defense and counsel to school districts in employment-related matters. The successful candidate will bring substantial expertise in employment litigation, especially within public entities, and will manage complex legal issues while helping to shape strategic decisions for clients. This opportunity offers competitive compensation, flexible work arrangements, and a robust benefits package.

Location

• San Diego, CA

Duties

• Litigation Defense & Risk Management for School Districts

  • Defend school districts in employment-related lawsuits, including wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims.
  • Manage disputes arising from complaints filed with agencies such as the EEOC, state education departments, and labor boards.
  • Oversee the discovery process, motion practice, and settlement negotiations, focusing on public sector employment regulations and education law.

• Strategic Counsel & Legal Guidance for School District Leadership

  • Advise school boards, superintendents, and HR departments on navigating complex employment laws, including Title IX, ADA, FMLA, and state-specific education regulations.
  • Develop proactive legal strategies to mitigate risks in labor disputes, employee discipline, hiring practices, and contract negotiations.
  • Provide counsel on union relations, teacher tenure, and collective bargaining agreements to ensure compliance and avoid litigation.

• Policy Development & Compliance for Educational Institutions

  • Review and draft school district employment policies, ensuring compliance with employment and education laws.
  • Advise on the drafting of teacher and staff contracts, ensuring compliance with public education laws, union agreements, and collective bargaining terms.
  • Ensure district practices comply with federal and state regulations affecting public school employment, including Title IX, ADA, and other education statutes.

• Training & Development for School District HR and Administrators

  • Provide tailored training to school district leadership, HR personnel, and administrators on legal compliance and best practices in employee relations.
  • Conduct workshops on issues like anti-discrimination, sexual harassment prevention, and navigating teacher tenure and union rules.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in employment law with a focus on litigation and defense.
• Experience defending school districts is required.
• Trial experience preferred, but not mandatory.
• Public entity defense experience is a plus.
• Strong research, analytical, and negotiating skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proactive case management skills and the ability to handle multiple priorities.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active member in good standing with the State Bar of California.

Skills

• Expertise in employment law, public sector law, and education law.
• Proficient in litigation management and legal strategy development.
• Skilled in drafting policies and contracts and ensuring legal compliance.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with school district leadership and HR departments.
• Experience conducting legal training and workshops.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with quarterly bonus opportunities.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off (UPTO) for attorneys.
• 90 Credit Hours offered annually for vacation time.
• Remote work options available (office space also provided if needed).
• Medical, dental, vision, and pet insurance.
• Firm-paid life insurance.
• 11 paid holidays per year.
• 401(k) with employer matching after one year.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Accelerated partnership track.
• Continuous training and professional development.
• Employee discounts, holiday parties, and team-building events.
• Employee referral program.
• Free snacks and beverages.
• Cell phone reimbursement.
• Military leave.
• Premium office locations with easy access to public transit.
• Casual dress code.

Founded over two decades ago, this California based firm specializes in workers' compensation, employment, immigration, and civil litigation. Continually growing, this firm provides high-quality service with honest communication. The highly experienced attorneys gather information quickly and get favorable results to meet clients' needs promptly. The firm offers training, mentoring, and supervision for its diverse team of attorneys. The firm has an excellent opportunity for professional growth. The culture of the firm is very collaborative and based on mutual respect. Working in a supportive and team-oriented work environment supports the full potential of every employee. Believing in giving back, the firm actively participates in community service.