Labor & Employment Attorney

About the Role

A nationally recognized law firm is seeking a Labor & Employment Associate with 3 to 5 years of experience to join its Chicago office. This opportunity involves working within a sophisticated management-side labor and employment practice representing employers across a broad range of industries. The role offers a hybrid work arrangement in a collaborative and team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Represent employers in labor and employment litigation in state and federal courts.
• Handle all phases of litigation, including:
  • Manage and defend single-plaintiff employment litigation, including claims involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and breach of contract.
  • Defend employers in wage and hour class actions and collective actions under federal, state, and local laws.
• Prepare and respond to administrative agency charges and investigations.
• Conduct legal research and provide practical, business-focused advice to employer clients.
• Collaborate with attorneys across offices and practice groups on complex employment matters.
• Participate in client counseling and risk management initiatives.
• Assist clients with employment law compliance and workplace policies.
• Maintain direct client contact and develop trusted advisor relationships.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• 3 to 5 years of labor and employment law experience, preferably from a large law firm environment.
• Minimum 3 years of employment litigation experience.
• Strong experience handling:
  • Single-plaintiff employment litigation
  • Wage and hour class and collective actions
  • Agency charges and administrative proceedings
• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in Illinois.

Skills

• Interest in and familiarity with AI-powered and emerging legal technologies.
• Ability to leverage technology to improve efficiency, enhance client service, and deliver high-quality legal work product.
• Comfortable working in an innovative and technology-driven legal environment.
• Adaptable and forward-thinking approach to legal practice and client solutions.