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Corporate Associate Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

Corporate Trust Attorney

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$170K - $280K/yr

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate Trust Associate to join a nationally recognized Am Law 100 firm. Location Options (Hybrid): Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Des Moines, Florham Park, Fort Wayne ...

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

... Chicago representing corporate employers, municipalities and insurance carriers in Workers ... We are seeking an exceptional candidate for an Associate Attorney opening in our Workers ...

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

... Chicago representing corporate employers, municipalities and insurance carriers in Workers ... We are seeking an exceptional candidate for an Associate Attorney opening in our Workers ...

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

... Chicago representing corporate employers, municipalities and insurance carriers in Workers ... We are seeking an exceptional candidate for an Associate Attorney opening in our Workers ...

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Showing results 1-20

Corporate Associate Attorney information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$58.2K

$158.2K

$324.4K

How much do corporate associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for corporate associate attorney in Chicago, IL is $158,210.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,300.00 and $193,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Corporate Associate Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Corporate Associate Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong expertise in corporate law, contracts, and legal research. Familiarity with document management systems, legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and drafting software is important. Excellent negotiation, analytical thinking, and communication skills set outstanding attorneys apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively advising clients, managing complex transactions, and ensuring compliance with corporate regulations.

What types of projects and transactions does a Corporate Associate Attorney typically work on, and how does this impact their day-to-day responsibilities?

Corporate Associate Attorneys are frequently involved in a wide range of transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance matters, contract drafting, and regulatory compliance. On a daily basis, this means balancing tasks such as conducting due diligence, preparing documents, negotiating deal terms, and coordinating with clients and other legal teams. The role is highly collaborative, often requiring close work with partners, paralegals, and other departments such as finance and tax. The variety and pace can be challenging, but it also offers significant learning opportunities and exposure to diverse industries.

What are Corporate Associate Attorneys?

Corporate Associate Attorneys are legal professionals who work in law firms or corporate legal departments, specializing in corporate law matters. They assist senior attorneys and partners with tasks such as drafting contracts, conducting due diligence, managing mergers and acquisitions, and ensuring compliance with corporate regulations. These associates typically support business transactions, advise clients on legal rights and obligations, and help resolve corporate disputes. Their work is crucial for maintaining legal and regulatory integrity in business operations.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Corporate Associate Attorney jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Corporate Associate Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Corporate Associate Attorney job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,210 per year, or $76.1 per hour.

Securities & Capital Markets Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Chicago, IL โ€ข Hybrid

$265K - $320K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Securities & Capital Markets Associate Attorney (1โ€“6 Years)Chicago, IL; New York; NY, Washington, DC; Miami, FL (Hybrid)

Direct Counsel is seeking a Securities & Capital Markets Associate Attorney to join a top-tier, nationally recognized law firm with a strong and collaborative corporate practice. This opportunity is ideal for an experienced associate looking to work on sophisticated transactional matters while receiving meaningful client exposure, professional development, and a sustainable work environment.

The Opportunity

The associate will join a cohesive Securities & Capital Markets group with a multidisciplinary practice that regularly advises public and private companies, issuers, underwriters, and investors. The team works closely with shareholders and clients and encourages active participation in business development and client-facing initiatives. The firm is known for its collegial culture, high-quality work, and long-term investment in its attorneys.

Qualifications
  • 1โ€“6 years of experience at an Am Law 100 law firm

  • Strong background in corporate, securities, capital markets, and M&A transactions

  • Significant experience with debt and equity offerings, M&A transactions, and SEC compliance and reporting

  • Prior experience with securitizations and/or aviation clients is a plus

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team

  • J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials

  • Admission to the Illinois or Washington, DC bar (active and in good standing)

Why This Role
  • High-level, interesting work in a more personalized and collaborative environment

  • Early and meaningful responsibility with direct client contact

  • Strong commitment to attorney development through training, mentoring, and feedback

  • Hybrid work schedule: three days in office, two days remote

  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits

Compensation
  • Base salary range: $225,000 โ€“ $320,000 (commensurate with experience and class year)

  • Discretionary annual bonus

Benefits Highlights
  • Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • 401(k) with pre-tax and Roth options

  • Firm-paid life and disability insurance

  • Generous PTO, paid holidays, sick and personal time

  • Professional development and training programs

  • Family-friendly benefits including backup child and elder care

  • Wellness programs and additional employee perks

Equal Employment Opportunity

The firm is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to any protected characteristic under applicable law.