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 across industries, trade associations, nonprofits, educational institutions, governments, family trusts, and high-net-worth individuals. Founded in 1848, the firm combines exceptional legal service with business acumen.

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, EEOC charges, mediations, conciliations, and negotiating settlements. The role also involves employment litigation, including drafting pleadings, managing discovery, and preparing motions such as motions for summary judgment.

Candidates should thrive in a team-oriented, collaborative environment and have experience representing higher education or public-sector clients, as this role includes significant work for public and private colleges and universities. We also welcome 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, on-site visits, mediations, and conciliations.
• Negotiate settlements and manage employment litigation, including drafting responsive pleadings, handling discovery, and preparing motions (e.g., motions for summary judgment).
• Work collaboratively in a team-oriented 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

• Adaptability to learn new skills, work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and balance independent and team-based work.
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills across diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication, with the ability to manage confidential information and sensitive situations tactfully.
• Problem-solving agility to analyze issues, make decisions, and develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Professionalism and composure under pressure.

Benefits

• Learning and Growth: Career development planning, mentorship program, specialized training, performance management, and bar exam/review course reimbursement.
• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision care; health savings and flexible spending accounts; wellness program; employee and family assistance program.
• Total Compensation: Competitive base pay, unlimited PTO plus 10 paid holidays, performance recognition, and reimbursement for ABA, state, and local bar membership fees.
• Planning for the Future: 401(k) with company contribution, short- and long-term disability plans, life insurance, critical illness insurance, and parental/family leave.
• Culture and Workplace: Collaborative culture, flexible remote work policy (up to 2.5 days per week), contemporary work environment, and positive, respectful climate.

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. Eligibility for the firm’s bonus program is subject to its conditions and restrictions.