About this role
We are seeking a seasoned Senior Litigation Associate to assume a leadership role within our employment litigation practice. The ideal candidate is a confident, independent litigator with a deep command of California employment law, a demonstrated history of taking cases to trial or arbitration, and the ability to serve as a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex workplace disputes. This attorney will play an integral role in shaping case strategy, driving matters to resolution, and contributing to the continued growth and development of the team. This is a hybrid position offering flexibility while maintaining strong team collaboration.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and independently manage a sophisticated docket of employment litigation matters through all phases, including pre-litigation, discovery, motion practice, trial, and appealServe as first chair or co-chair in bench and jury trials, arbitrations, and administrative hearingsTake and defend complex depositions, including C-suite executives, expert witnesses, and corporate representatives (PMK)Argue dispositive motions, including motions for summary judgment and summary adjudication, before state and federal courtsDevelop comprehensive case strategy and litigation plans in partnership with clients and firm leadershipOversee and supervise junior associates and paralegals, providing substantive feedback, mentorship, and day-to-day guidanceServe as a primary point of contact for clients, providing strategic counsel, managing expectations, and maintaining strong long-term relationshipsConduct and oversee legal research on complex and novel employment law issuesDraft, review, and refine high-stakes pleadings, briefs, and written discoveryParticipate in mediations, settlement negotiations, and pre-trial conferences as lead attorneyAssist in business development initiatives, including client pitches, industry presentations, and firm networking effortsMonitor legislative and regulatory developments in California and federal employment law and advise clients accordingly
Required Qualifications:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law schoolActive membership in the California State Bar, in good standingLicensed to practice law in the State of California5–10 years of employment litigation experience in a law firm, government agency, or comparable settingDemonstrated first or second chair trial, arbitration, or administrative hearing experienceExtensive deposition experience, including complex and expert witness depositionsStrong command of California employment law, including FEHA, PAGA, Labor Code, and applicable federal law (Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA)Proven experience with motion practice in both state and federal courtExceptional legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skillsDemonstrated ability to independently manage a high-volume, complex caseload with minimal supervisionStrong leadership and team-building skills with experience supervising junior attorneys and staff.Preferred Qualifications:
Experience litigating wage and hour class actions or PAGA representative actionsBackground in both plaintiff-side and defense-side employment litigationFamiliarity with e-discovery platforms and litigation management softwareExisting client relationships or demonstrated business development experienceAdmission to practice before the U.S. District Courts in California (Central, Northern, Eastern, or Southern Districts)Core Competencies:
Strategic legal thinker with the ability to anticipate litigation risk and advise clients proactivelySkilled communicator and advocate, both in written submissions and oral argumentCollaborative leader who elevates the attorneys and staff around themHighly organized, deadline-driven, and able to manage competing priorities across a demanding docketProfessional, client-focused, and committed to the highest ethical standards What We Offer:
Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and unlimited paid time off (PTO).Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education (CLE).A supportive work environment dedicated to teamwork, integrity, and excellence in client service.
Department
Litigation
Employment Type
Full Time
Location
Burbank, CA
Workplace type
Hybrid
Compensation
$180,000-250,000
#ZR