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First Year Attorney Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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First Year Attorney information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$39.4K

$95.6K

$186.6K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Raleigh, NC is $95,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $116,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for First Year Attorney jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most First Year Attorney job openings:
Community Association Manager - Portfolio

Community Association Manager - Portfolio

CAMS - Community Association Management Services

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Are you looking to join a company that values a supportive culture, inclusion, growth, and the ability to work in and out of the office on a flexible basis? CAMS (Community Association Management Services), one of the fastest-growing HOA management companies in the southeastern US, was founded on the simple idea that people and relationships come first, and this idea is at the core of everything we do. At CAMS, you will be immersed in a technologically advanced and team-oriented company.

Why CAMS Needs You

As a CAMS Community Manager, you will manage a portfolio of homeowner’s associations, build strong relationships with your boards of directors, and provide them with trusted guidance. This role requires a balance of financial expertise and excellent interpersonal skills to help communities thrive. Our managers are supported internally by teams of specialists dedicated to assisting both you and the communities we serve.

What You'll Do Here

· Maintain open and proactive communication with the board of directors and homeowners.

· Guide the board in making informed financial decisions, including preparing and presenting budgets.

· Analyze monthly financial reports and create variance reports to ensure transparency and accuracy.

· Generate and present monthly management reports to the board.

· Coordinate and oversee maintenance projects, working closely with vendors and contractors.

· Ensure daily operations of your community run smoothly and efficiently.

· Regularly attend board meetings as well as internal meetings.

· Supervise administrative and maintenance staff (if applicable).

· Manage short- and long-term objectives and goals of the HOA.

· Develop and recommend the annual operating budget and mid-year forecast in collaboration with HOA committees.

· Recommend and oversee third-party service providers and contractors.

· Provide recommendations for aesthetic, maintenance, and safety improvements to the community.

· Engage with HOA committees such as Finance, ARC, Infrastructure, Landscaping, Marine, and Security, providing guidance to drive excellence.

· Supervise the on-site work order process (if applicable).

· Work closely with external professionals, including engineers, attorneys, insurance professionals, and construction management firms.

· Ensure emergency preparedness and consistent execution of storm management protocols.

· Perform additional job functions as assigned, including direct oversight of on-site staff.

Requirements

· Proven ability to build strong relationships with clients and vendors.

· Strong proficiency in learning and using new technology.

· Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

· Experience reviewing and analyzing financial reports.

· Familiarity with HOA insurance policies and risk management.

· Understanding of contractual bidding processes and vendor negotiations.

· Knowledge of proper meeting procedures and governance for HOA boards.

· Ability to develop and maintain a comprehensive working budget.

Preferred Education, Licensing, and Experience:

· 1-2 years of experience in HOA management (strongly preferred).

· CAI designation(s) strongly preferred.

· Associate degree or higher preferred.

Salary & Benefits:

The salary range for this position is $45,000 - $60,000 annually, determined by the candidate’s qualifications and will be further discussed during the interview process.

The CAMS compensation package includes:

· Paid Time Off

· Company Paid Holidays

· Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans

· 401(k)

· Life Insurance

· Short-term & Long-term Disability

· Accident & Critical Illness coverage

· Employee Assistance Program

· Bonus opportunities (to be discussed in the interview)

· Cell phone stipend

· Business mileage reimbursement

Growth and Development Opportunities

At CAMS, we highly value professional development and invest in the success of our team. Through CAMS Academy, we provide a structured internal training program that includes:

· Monthly community manager training seminars

· Industry best practices and regulatory compliance updates

· Leadership development programs

· Hands-on mentorship opportunities

We also encourage and support external industry-related education, including participation in Community Association Institute (CAI) training programs and professional designations. Additionally, CAMS prioritizes internal promotions, providing our employees with clear career advancement pathways.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy building great relationships, and want to grow your career in community management, CAMS may be the right place for you!

Life in Raleigh, NC

If you're open to relocating, Raleigh, NC, and surrounding areas have a ton to offer. Home to some of the best medical and research facilities and tech giants, Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC, are collectively known as the Triangle. If you're a sports fan, look no further - the Triangle is home to Duke University, UNC, and NC State, some of the biggest college basketball powerhouses in the nation. However, if you'd rather spend your time shopping, dining, or enjoying some live entertainment, the Raleigh area has you covered there - with dozens of music venues, great dining, parks, and malls; there's something for everyone. Additionally, with its central location in North Carolina, residents of the Triangle area are never far from the beach or the mountains, making enjoying all NC has to offer a breeze.

Company Description

Emerging in 1991, CAMS was created with a small notebook, a fossil of a computer and a big dream. It was a humble foundation, to be sure, but founder and current president Mike Stonestreet had his focus on the future. He eventually joined forces with Dave Sweyer and together, they built a tech-savvy team of forward-thinking professionals who share their drive and dedication. Throughout the company’s rapid growth and evolution, Mike and Dave have always held onto the contagious enthusiasm and passion for serving people that first inspired them to build CAMS into what it is today. The old computer, however, has long since gone the way of the dinosaurs!
Mind if we brag?
CAMS was founded on the principle that people, not property, come first, and our team shares that same philosophy. We will let our highly trained staff’s credentials speak for themselves, because what we’re most proud of is their hands-on, friendly approach to our clients and their dedication to building strong relationships within our communities. We are uniquely able to provide the kind of one-on-one attention often lacking in the modern world. but with the added benefit of advanced software. The result – stellar service with a smile to HOAs throughout the regions we serve in North and South Carolina.
Thanks for letting us give you a peek into our story. We’d love to become a part of your story, as well! If you’re ready for trusted guidance for your community, we’ll be ready on the other end to greet you with a smile. We are confident you’ll find in CAMS a home-grown high-tech company whose certified background in community management, attention to detail and commitment to clients is at the very core of who we are and what we do.