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Insurance Defense Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Aionios LLC

Civil Litigation Associate

Portland, OR · On-site +1

Insurance Defense * Professional Liability * Product Liability * Environmental & Toxic Tort * Healthcare Litigation What You'll Work On: * Managing civil litigation matters through all phases of the ...

LHH US

Litigation Attorney

Tualatin, OR · Remote

$50 - $69/hr

Insurance defense experience is a plus but not required, training can be provided * Juris Doctor ... Keaton Anderson Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision ...

LHH US

Litigation Attorney

Tualatin, OR · Remote

$50 - $69/hr

Insurance defense experience is a plus but not required, training can be provided * Juris Doctor ... Keaton Anderson Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision ...

Scheer.Law PLLC

Associate Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Law PLLC is seeking a associate with at least 1 year of experience to join our firm. The ideal ... in insurance defense practice. * Strong organizational skills that reflect an ability to perform ...

LHH US

Litigation Legal Assistant

Lake Oswego, OR · Hybrid

$36 - $43/hr

Experience supporting civil litigation matters; insurance defense experience is preferred ... Keaton Anderson Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision ...

LHH US

Litigation Legal Assistant

Lake Oswego, OR · Hybrid

$36 - $43/hr

Experience supporting civil litigation matters; insurance defense experience is preferred ... Keaton Anderson Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision ...

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All JobsInsurance Defense Associate JobsInsurance Defense Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Insurance Defense Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$27.6K

$71.2K

$153.2K

How much do insurance defense associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for insurance defense associate in Portland, OR is $71,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $82,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an insurance defense associate?

Insurance Defense Associates are attorneys who represent insurance companies and their policyholders in legal matters, primarily defending them against claims of liability or damages. Their work often involves litigation, negotiation, and case evaluation in areas such as personal injury, property damage, and professional liability. They review claims, assess legal risks, and develop strategies to protect their clients’ interests throughout the legal process. These associates typically work at law firms or as in-house counsel for insurance providers. Strong analytical, negotiation, and courtroom skills are crucial for success in this role.

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

To thrive as an Insurance Defense Associate, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and strong legal research, writing, and litigation skills. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Excellent negotiation, analytical thinking, and communication skills help you effectively advocate for clients and collaborate with insurers and colleagues. These abilities are crucial for managing complex caseloads, achieving favorable outcomes, and maintaining strong client relationships in a fast-paced legal environment.

What are some common challenges faced by insurance defense associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Insurance Defense Associates often manage large caseloads with tight deadlines, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently. They must also navigate complex relationships with clients, claims professionals, and opposing counsel, balancing advocacy with professionalism. Regular communication and meticulous documentation are essential for managing expectations and ensuring successful outcomes. Proactively seeking feedback and collaborating closely with senior attorneys can help associates develop their litigation skills and handle challenges more effectively.

What is the difference between Insurance Defense Associate vs Claims Adjuster?

AspectInsurance Defense AssociateClaims Adjuster
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require licensing
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, insurance companies, corporate legal departmentsInsurance companies, third-party administrator offices
Industry UsageLegal defense for insurance companies in litigationEvaluating and settling insurance claims

Insurance Defense Associates primarily work in legal settings, defending insurance companies in litigation, often requiring a law degree and bar licensure. Claims Adjusters focus on assessing and settling claims, typically with less formal legal education. Both roles are integral to the insurance industry but serve different functions within the claims process.

Insurance Defense Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Insurance Defense Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,174 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Litigation Associate - Insurance Defense

SMITH FREED & EBERHARD PC

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description:

Work Directly with the Managing Partner on Complex Civil Litigation

Location: Portland, Oregon (In-Person / Hybrid Considered)

Practice Area: Insurance Defense • Civil Litigation


Some firms promise mentorship – We put you at counsel table

We are looking for an experienced litigation associate who wants more than another insurance defense position. This position is for the attorney ready to work side-by-side with our Managing Partner on complex, high-exposure litigation – not years from now, but immediately.


You will help develop litigation strategy, take depositions, argue motions, prepare witnesses, participate in mediations and trials, and work directly with clients on significant cases.


If you are looking for an environment where your work influences the outcomes of important litigation, and where your professional growth is limited only by your ability – you will find it here.


Your Practice

Work on complex commercial insurance defense litigation involving:

  • Catastrophic injury claims
  • Commercial transportation litigation
  • Premises liability
  • Products liability
  • Dram shop liability
  • Complex negligence actions
  • Other high-exposure civil litigation matters

As your experience grows, so will your opportunities. We believe talented attorneys should earn opportunities based on ability – not simply years in practice.

Why This Position Is Different

Direct Access to Firm Leadership – collaborate directly with the Managing Partner on strategy, client counseling, case evaluation and resolution strategy.


Meaningful Responsibility – from the beginning, you will have opportunities to:

  • Take and defend depositions
  • Argue contested motions
  • Develop litigation strategy
  • Attend arbitrations and mediations
  • Manage litigation from inception through resolution

Learn Defense Litigation at a Higher Level – beyond learning procedure, learn how experienced litigators evaluate risk, negotiate effectively, communicate with clients, and make strategic decisions that determine case outcomes.


Invest in Your Future – we believe outstanding attorneys are developed through challenging work, thoughtful mentorship, and meaningful litigation experience.


Compensation and Benefits:

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Performance bonus opportunities
  • Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with employer contribution
  • Paid bar dues, CLEs, PLF, and professional memberships
  • Paid parental leave
  • Student debt assistance
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Parking or mass transit reimbursement
  • Voluntary short- or long-term disability, life, and pet insurance
  • Attorney retreats and professional development opportunities
Requirements:

We are Looking For

An attorney with:

  • Active Oregon State Bar membership
  • 3+ years of insurance defense litigation experience
  • Experience managing civil litigation files
  • Strong deposition, motion practice, and discovery skills
  • Courtroom experience, including hearings and arbitrations
  • Excellent writing and analytical abilities
  • A genuine desire to become an exceptional litigator
  • Trial experience is valued, but not required

Build Your Career Where It Matters

Exceptional litigators are not developed by managing the largest caseloads. They are developed by handling meaningful cases, working alongside experienced lawyers, and earning responsibility that accelerates their growth.


If you’re ready to take the next step in your litigation career, we would like to meet you!


Smith Freed Eberhard is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, military service obligations or other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.