Labor & Employment Associate (Attorney) - Hartford, CT or Stamford, CT
A highly regarded Am Law 200 firm is seeking a mid- to senior-level Labor & Employment Associate to join its growing team in Hartford or Stamford.This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney who wants to build a sophisticated and well-rounded labor and employment practice while working within one of the most respected firm cultures in the country.The practice advises clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 and Global 500 companies on the full spectrum of employment matters, including counseling, compliance, workplace investigations, training, litigation, labor matters, board advisory work, and representation before state and federal agencies.Attorneys in this group work closely with experienced practitioners recognized by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers, and are given meaningful client contact, strong mentorship, and substantial opportunities for professional growth.Representative Experience May IncludeMulti-state employment counseling and compliance adviceWorkplace investigations and sensitive personnel mattersEmployment aspects of mergers, acquisitions, and corporate transactionsDrafting and advising on employee handbooks, policies, agreements, and related materialsDefending employment litigation in state and federal courtManaging discovery, taking and defending depositions, and briefing dispositive motionsRepresenting clients before administrative agenciesSupervising junior attorneys and legal staffWhy Attorneys Are Drawn to This OpportunitySophisticated and varied practice combining counseling, investigations, and litigationCollaborative and collegial team environmentDirect access to mentors, partners, and clientsFormal integration and mentorship program, including assignment of two mentors upon joiningHybrid work model with strong emphasis on meaningful in-person collaborationLong-term career growth opportunities within a nationally respected platformOpportunity to develop deep client relationships across diverse industriesThe firm has earned national recognition for both its culture and professional environment, including being ranked among the:Top 50 Best Firms to Work ForTop 25 Firms for CultureTop 10 Firms for Diversity, Technology & Innovation, Wellness, and Integration of Laterals and ClerksThe firm has also earned Mansfield Rule Certified Plus status and has repeatedly been recognized among the Best Places to Work in Connecticut.Compensation & BenefitsThe firm offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:Bonus programMedical, dental, vision, life, and disability insuranceFlexible spending accountsGenerous parental leavePet insurance401(k) planHybrid work flexibilityReasonable billable hour goal, including credit for pro bono work and approved DEI activitiesFlexible PTO approach without rigid capsThe ideal candidate will have:At least three years of labor and employment experienceStrong academic credentialsExcellent research, writing, analytical, and project management skillsExperience providing practical, business-oriented client adviceKnowledge of Connecticut state and federal court proceduresThe ability to manage multiple matters effectively and work collaboratively within a team environmentConnecticut Bar admission or eligibility for admission upon hireWorkplace investigation experience and admission in multiple jurisdictions are a plus.For consideration, please provide a resume, law school transcript, and two writing samples (preferably briefs not edited by others). A cover letter is appreciated but not required. All applications are confidential and NOT shared with employers without the candidate's permission.Oak Ridge Legal Search and the clients we work with are equal opportunity employers and provide equal opportunity to qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, sexual orientation, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class in accordance with all applicable laws. If a level of experience is indicated, this is a guideline only and does not preclude applications from candidates with more or less experience.