Employment Associate Attorney

Company: Direct Counsel
Location: San Francisco
Posted on: February 13, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Employment Associate Attorney – California (Los Angeles, Orange County, Sacramento, or San Francisco) Direct Counsel is seeking an Employment Associate with 4 years of experience to join a well-established California-based law firm . This position may be based in Los Angeles, Orange County, Sacramento, or San Francisco and offers a collaborative hybrid work environment, hands-on mentoring, and a clear path to partnership. About the Role The firm’s Employment Group represents employers across industries in a variety of litigation and advisory matters. The team provides practical and strategic counsel on workplace issues, litigates high-stakes employment disputes, and helps clients navigate evolving labor and employment laws in California and beyond. Key Responsibilities Defend employers in complex class, collective, and representative actions , as well as single-plaintiff wage-and-hour, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation cases . Advise employers on a wide range of employment counseling and compliance issues . Conduct workplace investigations and training sessions for clients. Draft motions, pleadings, and legal memoranda, and represent clients in court and before administrative agencies. Collaborate closely with partners and senior attorneys on strategy and client service initiatives. Qualifications JD from an accredited law school. Admitted to practice in California. Minimum of 4 years of experience in employment counseling and/or litigation. Strong research, writing, and analytical skills. Excellent academic credentials and professional judgment. Candidates with a general litigation background and an interest in employment law are encouraged to apply. Compensation & Benefits Base salary range: $195,000 – $230,000 , depending on experience. Annual billable hours expectation: 1,850 (includes up to 100 hours of approved pro bono work). Associates are eligible for a 15% bonus of base compensation upon meeting billable hour expectations, as well as additional discretionary bonuses. Hybrid work schedule and professional development support. This is an excellent opportunity for a mid-level associate to join a collegial and reputable employment practice offering substantive work, mentorship, and long-term growth potential. Apply through Direct Counsel to learn more and be considered for this opportunity.

Keywords: Direct Counsel, Daly City , Employment Associate Attorney, Legal , San Francisco, California