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First Year Law Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heyl Royster

Summer Associate Program 2027

Peoria, IL · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The Heyl Royster Summer Associate Program 2027 is intended primarily for second-year law students, although applications from first-year students are accepted. This program serves as our primary ...

Heyl Royster

Summer Associate Program 2027

Peoria, IL · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The Heyl Royster Summer Associate Program 2027 is intended primarily for second-year law students, although applications from first-year students are accepted. This program serves as our primary ...

Jobot

Family Law Associate Attorney

Austin, TX · Remote

$125K - $185K/yr

Salary: $125,000 - $185,000 per year A bit about us: ----- Based in Texas, with 4 offices across ... Our firm prides itself on a client-first, team-based approach--when you work with one attorney, you ...

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First Year Law Associate information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do first year law associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year law associate in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first year law associate?

A First Year Law Associate is an entry-level attorney who has recently graduated from law school and passed the bar exam. They typically work at law firms, assisting senior attorneys with legal research, drafting documents, attending meetings, and supporting case preparation. First Year Associates are often assigned to a specific practice area, such as litigation or corporate law, and spend their first year learning firm procedures and developing practical legal skills. This role is foundational for building a legal career, offering mentorship and hands-on experience.

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

To thrive as a First Year Law Associate, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and citation tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, time management, and attention to detail help associates work effectively with supervising attorneys and clients. These skills and qualities are essential for producing high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and building a strong foundation for a successful legal career.

What are some common challenges faced by first year law associates, and how can they overcome them?

First year law associates often face challenges like managing heavy workloads, meeting tight deadlines, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm. Balancing multiple assignments from different partners and learning the firm's expectations can feel overwhelming at first. To overcome these challenges, it's crucial to communicate proactively with supervisors, seek feedback, and prioritize tasks effectively. Building strong organizational habits and taking advantage of mentorship opportunities can also help associates adjust and thrive in their new roles.
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First Year Law Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Law Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.

Traditional Labor Law Associate

Jackson Lewis

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$230K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Jackson Lewis rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 34 rated law firms

Job description

Focused on employment and labor law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C.'s 1,000+ attorneys located in major cities nationwide consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. We help employers develop proactive strategies, strong policies and business-oriented solutions to cultivate high-functioning workforces that are engaged and stable, and share our clients' goals to emphasize belonging and respect for the contributions of every employee.

The Firm is ranked in the First Tier nationally in the category of Labor and Employment Litigation, as well as in both Employment Law and Labor Law on behalf of Management, in the U.S. News - Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms".

This position is for an Traditional Labor Law Associate attorney for the firm's San Francisco, CA office.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • The position is primarily a traditional labor position representing employers but will also include advice and counsel work with employers regarding federal and California workplace laws and other assignments, as needed. From time to time, the position may also involve due diligence of employer operations for workplace law issues in conjunction with acquisitions/mergers.
  • All facets ofTraditional Labor Relations, including:
    • Handling unfair labor practice charges at the National Labor Relations Board ("NLRB")
    • Researching and writing;
    • Representing management in NLRB elections;
    • Providing legal advice to employers regarding union organizing, corporate campaigns, card check and neutrality agreements;
    • Negotiating and/or providing legal advice regarding collective bargaining agreements;
    • Handling grievance, arbitration and unfair labor practice proceedings;
    • Obtaining mass picketing injunctions;
  • Advising employers on federal and California wage and hour issues, leave management, disability accommodating issues and other workplace issues;
  • Reviewing handbooks, policies and forms for compliance with federal and state law;
  • Reviewing compensation, commission and bonus plans;
  • Conducting management training regarding labor relations, federal and California workplace issues and, harassment, discrimination and retaliation; and
  • Other duties and responsibilities as reasonably assigned.

Skills and Educational Requirements:

  • JD from ABA accredited law school
  • 4-6 years experience in litigation or advice work as an attorney
  • Traditional labor experience preferred
  • Federal and/or California advice and counsel work preferred
  • CA Bar Admission
  • Understanding of current agency (state and federal) enforcement techniques preferred
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Strong organizational and project management skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Bilingual, English and Spanish, is preferred but not required
  • May include regular business travel

For California, the expected salary range for this position is between $230,000 and $250,000. The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for annual bonuses.

Jackson Lewis offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Account
  • Firm-paid holidays, vacation and sick time
  • Employee assistance program and other firm benefits

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#hybrid

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We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law.

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