Corporate Counsel

About the role

ExtensisHR is one of the largest Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) in the U.S., with client employees in all fifty states and over $3 billion in employment-related costs managed annually. The Corporate Counsel will join a small, collaborative legal and compliance team handling a broad mix of employment, commercial, risk, and client-facing work. The role splits roughly half the time on employment advice and agency matters, about a third on contracts and client negotiations, and the remainder on compliance projects. No prior PEO industry experience is required, but sound judgment, strong writing, comfort interacting with clients and business leaders, and a genuine interest in learning a complex, regulated business are essential. The position represents ExtensisHR, supporting internal teams and explaining contracts and processes to clients and brokers.

Responsibilities

• Advise internal HR, Operations, and Account Management teams on a wide range of employment questions, including hiring, discipline, terminations, leave, accommodation, wage and hour, and multistate compliance.
• Assist with oversight of the company’s Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) program, including claim intake, carrier notice, coordination with panel counsel, monitoring defense strategy and spend, and supporting renewals.
• Manage agency charges and litigation alongside outside counsel, from EEOC and state agency charges through resolution.
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, including Client Service Agreements, vendor contracts, NDAs, and data processing agreements, and respond to client redlines.
• Interact directly with clients and brokers to explain ExtensisHR’s contract terms and processes, and resolve questions about services.
• Support compliance initiatives in areas such as privacy and data protection, employee benefits, payroll tax, and state licensing and registration.
• Draft and update policies, templates, and internal guidance, and help train internal teams on legal and compliance topics.
• Take on special projects as the business grows.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support the efficient operation of the department and the organization.

Requirements

• J.D. and active bar membership in good standing (NJ or FL admission preferred; candidates admitted elsewhere must be eligible for in-house counsel registration in the state where they will work, where applicable).
• Approximately five to seven years of legal experience, ideally at a small or mid-sized firm handling a variety of matters and working directly with clients (candidates outside this range considered with the right mix of experience).
• Substantive experience in employment law, commercial contracting, or both, with willingness to build depth in the newer area.
• Clear, practical written and verbal communication, including the ability to give business-focused advice to non-lawyers.
• Sound judgment, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage a varied docket independently.
• Curiosity and a genuine desire to learn a regulated, multi-disciplinary industry.

Qualifications

• PEO, staffing, or HR services industry experience.
• Exposure to ERISA and employee benefits, payroll or employment tax, or privacy and data protection law.
• Experience with EPLI or other insurance programs, whether as defense counsel, coverage counsel, or in-house.

Skills

Effective use and understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies to enhance productivity, decision-making, and overall performance. Expected to maintain awareness of emerging AI applications relevant to responsibilities, apply AI tools ethically and effectively, and continuously develop AI proficiency.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing desk-related tasks.
• Prolonged use of a computer, keyboard, and mouse, requiring repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift and carry office supplies or equipment up to 20 pounds.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and twisting to retrieve files or supplies.
• Ability to walk throughout the office, including moving between different departments or meeting rooms.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and via phone or video conferencing.
• Ability to focus and maintain attention for long periods while working on various tasks.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in both verbal and written form.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Work environment is typically quiet and climate-controlled, with standard office equipment available.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Progressive Paid-Time Off Program (including time off for volunteering and life events)
• Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance available from day one
• Pretax Spending Accounts for health and dependent care expenses
• 401(k) and IRA retirement plans with employer contributions
• Extensive professional development programs
• Employee Discounts on retail and entertainment
• Social and community outreach committee promoting inclusive culture through in-office events and networking
• Diversity, Inclusion and Equity (DEI) committee promoting DEI initiatives and employee engagement
• Complimentary coffee and snacks
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k