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First Year Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

We believe in doing the hard work first. We believe there is a difference between busyness and ... Maternity/Paternity leave after one year This position is client facing . We're looking for forward ...

We believe in doing the hard work first. We believe there is a difference between busyness and ... Maternity/Paternity leave after one year This position is client facing . We're looking for forward ...

City Attorney

Warren, MI · On-site

$149K/yr

... without first securing the approval of such employment or retainer by the council. Preferred ... Pay rate: Up to $149,000/year (Depending on Qualifications) Excellent benefit package includes ...

Be Seen First

Professional Services Internal Non-Attorney Salesperson We are looking for an experienced, internal ... first year, along with additional paid holidays, so you can enjoy your life. ● You value a fully ...

Showing results 21-40

First Year Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$35.3K

$85.7K

$167.3K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Michigan is $85,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,100.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first year attorney?

A first year attorney is a lawyer who has recently graduated from law school and has just begun practicing law, typically in their first year at a law firm or legal organization. These attorneys are often referred to as 'associates' and usually focus on learning the foundational aspects of legal practice, performing research, drafting documents, and assisting more senior lawyers. The first year is considered a training period where new attorneys gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and begin to build their legal careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first year attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Year Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and analytical reasoning. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage deadlines are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate work, meeting client and firm expectations, and building a successful legal career from the outset.

What are some common challenges faced by first year attorneys, and how can they be addressed?

First year attorneys often face challenges related to managing a steep learning curve, balancing heavy workloads, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm or legal department. It's common to feel overwhelmed by billable hour requirements and the expectation to deliver high-quality work while learning firm procedures. Building strong relationships with mentors and colleagues, seeking regular feedback, and taking proactive steps to improve time management skills can help ease the transition. Many firms also offer training programs and support networks to assist new attorneys in developing their legal and professional skills.

What is the difference between First Year Attorney vs Law Clerk?

AspectFirst Year AttorneyLaw Clerk
Required CredentialsJ.D. degree, bar admissionJ.D. degree, often bar admission not required
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesCourts, law firms, government offices
Employer & Industry UsageLegal industry, post-law schoolJudicial and legal institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

First Year Attorneys and Law Clerks often share similar educational backgrounds, but First Year Attorneys are typically recent law school graduates working as entry-level lawyers, while Law Clerks usually assist judges or attorneys with research and drafting. Both roles require a J.D. degree, but First Year Attorneys are more involved in client representation and legal practice, whereas Law Clerks focus on research and case preparation. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position based on their career goals and experience.

What are popular job titles related to First Year Attorney jobs in Michigan?

For First Year Attorney jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,704 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Lawyers Club Program Manager

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$54K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
Department Summary:
Michigan Housing is an actively engaged unit within Student Life Auxiliary Services within the Division of Student Life. M Housing serves approximately 11,500 students: 9,100 undergraduate and 2,400 graduate and professional students and their families. Although first-year students are not required to live on campus, historically 96-98% of all new first-year students choose to live on. Currently, the M Housing portfolio consists of 19 residential facilities that include traditional residence halls, apartments, and other living options located in communities on north and central campuses in Ann Arbor. In partnership with Michigan Dining, there are 9 dining halls and 9 retail operations embedded within the residence halls that serve approximately 4 million meals per year. Beginning Fall 2024, M Housing partnered with other units and departments within Student Life to support the residential experience for approximately 25 U-M students on the Marygrove campus, located in Detroit. In Fall 2026, five new residence halls housing 2,300 undergraduate students and a new 822-seat dining facility will open to continue M Housing's strong tradition of providing affordable housing options and services for U-M students. In addition to supporting the academic mission of the University, M Housing creates and sustains diverse learning-centered residential communities that ultimately enhance the residential experience.
Position Summary:
The University of Michigan Lawyers Club is a 501C3 with a MOU with Michigan Housing and the University of Michigan. It serves as a residence for law students, an event and gathering space for the legal education community, and serves Michigan Law students, faculty, alumni, and guests. The Lawyers Club contains residential spaces with contract holders, guestrooms for overnight guests, and a dining facility. The Club works in tandem with various law school departments, including admissions, development and alumni relations, faculty teaching, student life, and the first-year program.
The Lawyers Club Program Manager has day-to-day responsibility for the administrative, engagement, and resident support functions of the Lawyers Club in coordination with the Assistant Director for Academic Initiatives. The position provides a supportive residential living environment to law students. The Lawyer's Club Program Manager aligns their work with the policies and procedures of Michigan Housing in concert with the requirements of a world-class professional school, which operates under the American Bar Association specifications. The Lawyers Club is an integral part of Michigan Law in providing outside-of-the-classroom experiences to current and future students, alumni, and guests.
Responsibilities*
Program Coordination and Implementation - 40%
  • Lead residence operations and implement programmatic opportunities in a way that creates and maintains a positive learner-centered community embracing Residence Education's Community Development Model, and Restorative Practices.
  • Communicate and promote University policy and procedures, including the Community Living at Michigan (CLAM) and the Housing Student Conflict Resolution process.
  • Support student learning through the student conduct and conflict resolution process.
  • Coordinate efforts of services within the residence, including functional link with facilities and room reservations, dining and catering services, maintenance, academic partners, etc.
  • Provide community-related newsletters and semester reporting content.

Student Staff Supervision and Support - 40%
  • Directly supervise 4 student Resident Advisors.
  • Support and refer law students seeking assistance with interpersonal, adjustment, and other issues to Law School Student Life and campus resources. Educate, advise and refer students concerning Housing and Law School policies and procedures.
  • Develop and facilitate trainings and team meetings for Resident Advisors. Lead Community Center/Desk Assistant staff meetings in the absence of the Administrative Assistant.
  • Manage the student staff selection processes related to these student positions in collaboration with the Assistant Director for Student Staff Selection and Training in Residence Education.
  • Serve as a resource in facilitating community engagement opportunities.

Administrative and Management - 20%
  • Support the Assistant Director of Academic Initiatives in preparing reports to submit the Board of Governors for their planning purposes.
  • Assist in coordinating ongoing communication via print and website updates.
  • Responsible for Programming & Training operational budget.
  • Collaborate with University of Michigan Law School and campus partners to facilitate events hosted in the Lawyers Club.

Required Qualifications*
  • A Master's degree in Higher Education, College Student Personnel, Educational Administration, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 2 years of supervisory experience in a student environment.
  • Experience facilitating conversations around topics of learning, difference, and inclusion.
  • Event planning and coordination experience with demonstrated organizational and administrative skills, including the associated computer and technology skills.
  • Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Experience working with graduate and professional students.
  • Familiarity with Sessions@Michigan, Happening@Michigan, & CampusLabs or equivalent systems.
  • Experience utilizing integrative learning models.
  • Interpersonal communication skills with diverse student and staff positions with an understanding of and experience in community development.

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Additional Information
This role may have reporting obligations under Title IX and Clery.
Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment and applicants for this position will not be sponsored for work visas.
Salary may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and education of the selected candidate.
#studentlife
Position Responsibilities Criteria (leadership and behavioral qualities expected in this position):
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills in written and spoken formats.
  • Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with others across all identities.
  • Understanding of inclusive frameworks in higher education, including student development.
  • Action-oriented, program development skills, and skills in leveraging resources effectively and efficiently.
  • Ability to self-direct and prioritize multiple projects using strong organizational skills.

Financial/Budgetary Responsibility:
The Program Manager has primary responsibility and oversight of a budget of approximately 20k in coordination with the Assistant Director of Academic Initiatives
Working Conditions:
Work Schedule:
  • 40 hours/week.
  • Requires working weekly evening hours and periodic weekend hours; Coordinate with supervisor to design a flexible work schedule.
  • This is an on-site position.

Physical Requirements:
May need to move packages of up to fifty pounds to and from various areas in the community, including shelving units, package storage locations, and mailrooms. The incumbent is required to travel around campus to engage with direct reports, campus partners and students.
Direct reports
The Program Manager may supervise up to 6 Lawyer's Club Resident Advisors.
Union Affiliation
This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by University Staff United, AFT Local 284, AFL-CIO, which represents Employees in all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
278545
Working Title
Lawyers Club Program Manager
Job Title
STUDENT AFFAIRS PROGRAM MGR
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
Housing Managed Oper
Department
Desk Operation
Posting Begin/End Date
8/28/2026 - 9/11/2026
Salary
$54,100.00 - $62,200.00
Career Interest
University Staff United (USU)

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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