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Associate Counsel Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Associate Counsel, Corporate

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$185 - $210/hr

Summary Topstep is on the hunt for a dynamic, driven Associate Counsel ready to dive in and make things happen as a corporate generalist on our fast moving Legal team. Reporting directly to the ...

Posted today

Associate General Counsel

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$119K - $180K/yr

The Associate General Counsel provides advanced legal counsel and strategic guidance to senior University leadership on a broad range of complex matters, including real estate, facilities operations ...

Associate General Counsel

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$119K - $180K/yr

The Associate General Counsel provides advanced legal counsel and strategic guidance to senior University leadership on a broad range of complex matters, including real estate, facilities operations ...

Associate General Counsel

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$119K - $180K/yr

The Associate General Counsel provides advanced legal counsel and strategic guidance to senior University leadership on a broad range of complex matters, including real estate, facilities operations ...

Associate General Counsel - Privacy

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$234K - $279K/yr

Associate General Counsel II The Associate General Counsel II job assists in protecting an organization's rights, obligations and privileges and its legal interests by providing legal direction to ...

Associate General Counsel

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$125K - $180K/yr

... Associate General Counsel/General Counsel with deep healthcare industry experience to serve as a strategic legal partner to executive leadership. This role will provide legal guidance across clinical ...

Associate General Counsel

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$125K - $180K/yr

... Associate General Counsel/General Counsel with deep healthcare industry experience to serve as a strategic legal partner to executive leadership. This role will provide legal guidance across clinical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Counsel information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.3K

$150.8K

$217.5K

How much do associate counsel jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate counsel in Chicago, IL is $150,803.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,800.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate counsel do?

An Associate Counsel is a legal professional who supports an organization's legal department by providing advice on contracts, compliance, risk management, and regulatory matters. They often draft and review legal documents, conduct legal research, and assist senior counsel or general counsel with litigation and internal investigations. Associate Counsel typically work closely with various departments to ensure the organization operates within the law and helps protect the company from legal risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate counsel?

To thrive as an Associate Counsel, you need a strong legal education (JD or equivalent), bar admission, and expertise in legal research, analysis, and drafting. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and document management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure effective legal advice, risk mitigation, and valuable support to clients or the organization.

What types of legal matters does an associate counsel typically handle on a day-to-day basis?

As an Associate Counsel, you can expect to work on a broad range of legal tasks such as drafting and reviewing contracts, conducting legal research, assisting in compliance reviews, and supporting senior attorneys with litigation or regulatory matters. You may also interact with various departments like HR, finance, and operations to provide legal guidance and ensure organizational compliance. The role often requires juggling multiple projects simultaneously, making time management and communication skills essential.

What is the difference between Associate Counsel vs Corporate Counsel?

AspectAssociate CounselCorporate Counsel
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, legal departments, consultingIn-house legal teams, corporate offices
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, governmentCorporations, large businesses
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Associate Counsel typically works in law firms or legal departments providing legal advice on various issues, while Corporate Counsel is an in-house lawyer focusing on corporate legal matters within a company. Both roles require a JD and bar admission, but their work environments and employer types differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the legal industry.

Is associate counsel a good job?

Associate counsel is a legal position that involves providing legal advice, drafting documents, and supporting senior attorneys. It typically requires a law degree and bar admission, with work often involving research, negotiation, and compliance tasks. The role can offer career advancement and specialization opportunities within a law firm or corporate legal department.

What does it mean to be an associate counsel?

An associate counsel is a legal professional who provides legal advice and support within an organization or law firm, often handling specific areas of law such as contracts, compliance, or litigation. They typically have a law degree, pass the bar exam, and possess strong analytical and communication skills to assist senior attorneys and clients.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Counsel jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Counsel job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Counsel job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,803 per year, or $72.5 per hour.

$140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

) Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced and business-minded attorney to serve as In-House Counsel for a growing organization in the senior living industry. This role will provide legal guidance on contracts, employment matters, regulatory compliance, risk management, corporate governance, and general business operations.
The ideal candidate is a practical problem-solver who can provide clear legal advice while supporting business objectives and operational success.
Key Responsibilities
  • Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, vendor agreements, and other legal documents.
  • Advise leadership on employment, operational, regulatory, and corporate matters.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
  • Manage legal claims, disputes, and relationships with outside counsel.
  • Develop and maintain company policies, procedures, and compliance programs.
  • Identify legal risks and recommend practical solutions.
  • Support strategic business initiatives and special projects as needed.
  • Provide legal training and guidance to management teams.
Qualifications
  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
  • Active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
  • 5+ years of legal experience in a law firm, corporate legal department, or both.
  • Strong contract drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication, judgment, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with senior leadership.
Preferred Experience
  • Senior living, healthcare, real estate, hospitality, or other regulated industries.
  • Employment law, compliance, and risk management.
  • Experience supporting privately held businesses.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive compensation package and benefits. This position offers the opportunity to work directly with executive leadership and have a meaningful impact on the organization's operations, growth, and long-term success.