Labor & Employment Mid-Level Associate
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP is a full-service law firm with over 350 lawyers and technical professionals serving clients globally. Founded in 1848, the firm works with companies, trade associations, nonprofits, educational institutions, governments, family trusts, and high-net-worth individuals.
About the role
We are seeking an Associate Attorney with three to seven years of experience in employment law and litigation to join our Labor and Employment Practice. The ideal candidate will have experience counseling clients on employment-related decisions, developing compliant employment policies, and handling claims of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation under state and federal laws. Responsibilities include defending DOL audits and EEOC charges, preparing position statements, representing clients in mediations, and negotiating settlements. The role also involves employment litigation, including drafting pleadings, managing discovery, and preparing motions for summary judgment.
Candidates with experience representing higher education or public-sector clients are preferred, as this role includes significant work for public and private colleges and universities. The firm is also open to candidates with 3-5 years of litigation experience interested in transitioning to a full-time employment law practice.
This position is available in our Austin, Los Angeles, Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee, or Raleigh offices.
Responsibilities
- Counsel clients on employment-related decision-making and develop compliant employment policies, practices, and procedures.
- Handle claims of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation under state and federal employment laws.
- Defend DOL audits and EEOC charges, including preparing position statements, representing clients in fact-finding conferences, and negotiating settlements.
- Represent clients in mediations, conciliations, and on-site visits.
- Draft responsive pleadings, manage all aspects of the discovery process, and prepare motions, including motions for summary judgment.
- Work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment with a focus on public and private higher education clients.
Requirements
- J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school with excellent academic credentials.
- Three to seven years of employment law experience in private practice.
- Valid authorization to work in the U.S.
Skills
- Ability to learn and embrace new skills and adapt to evolving firm needs.
- Strong collaboration and teamwork skills at all levels of the firm.
- Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations with discretion.
- Strong problem-solving skills, including identifying issues, making decisions, and developing innovative solutions.
- Ability to work well under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and maintain professionalism.
Benefits
- Competitive base pay and performance-based bonus program.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, vision, health savings accounts, and flexible spending accounts.
- Wellness program and employee/family assistance program.
- Unlimited PTO plus 10 paid holidays.
- 401(k) with company contribution.
- Short-term and long-term disability plans, life insurance, and critical illness insurance.
- Parental/family leave.
- ABA, state, and local bar membership fee reimbursement.
- Bar exam/bar review course reimbursement.
- Mentorship program and specialized training opportunities.
- Flexible remote work policy (up to 2.5 days per week).
- Positive, respectful, and collaborative work environment.
Pay
For California and Illinois applicants, the annual compensation range for this role is $185,000 to $245,000. Final compensation will depend on experience, skills, and internal equity.