Labor & Employment Associate

A law firm seeks an experienced and driven Labor & Employment Associate to join a well-established management-side team in San Diego, CA. This opportunity is ideal for employment litigators with a strong understanding of both State and Federal employment laws, including wage and hour laws, FMLA, and related statutes. The firm is looking for a professional who can take the lead on cases and confidently handle litigation matters from case preparation through trial, while also having a proactive approach in managing complex employment law issues.

Duties:

• Handle and manage a diverse caseload of labor and employment matters, representing employers in litigation.
• Prepare cases for trial, including drafting and responding to motions, discovery, and pleadings in both state and federal courts.
• Attend hearings, depositions, and mediations to advocate for clients.
• Provide legal counsel regarding federal and state employment laws, wage and hour compliance, FMLA, and workplace regulations.
• Develop and execute strategies for case resolution, including settlement negotiations when applicable.
• Work independently while also collaborating with the team on complex cases.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients by offering proactive legal solutions.
• Assist with client counseling and advice on various employment-related matters.

Requirements:

• 4+ years of experience in labor and employment law, with a focus on management-side litigation.
• Proven ability to handle cases independently, including managing litigation from inception through trial.
• Strong understanding of federal and state employment laws, including wage and hour regulations, FMLA, and other workplace issues.
• Experience representing clients in state and federal courts and before regulatory agencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft legal documents and argue motions effectively.
• Strong negotiation skills and ability to handle settlement discussions.
• Ability to prioritize multiple cases and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative mindset with a strong work ethic and attention to detail.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Licensed to practice law in the state of California (California Bar, in good standing).

Skills:

• Expertise in labor and employment law with experience in litigation.
• Proficient in case management, including pre-trial preparation, hearings, and trials.
• Strong research and writing skills for legal documents such as motions, briefs, and discovery responses.
• Ability to manage client expectations while providing effective legal solutions.
• Experience handling employment law matters in federal and state courts, as well as before government agencies.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus but not required.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Paid time off (PTO), including holidays, sick leave, and personal days.
• Health, vision, and dental insurance options for employees and their families.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with firm match.
• Life and disability insurance coverage.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Hybrid work environment (in-office and remote flexibility).

This role presents an exciting opportunity for a skilled Labor & Employment Associate to join a dynamic and forward-thinking team in a thriving market.