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Summer Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

2027 Summer Associate (Intern)

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The Summer Associate program will be approximately 8 weeks long and begin in Summer 2027. We're committed to helping our Summer Associates succeed by providing them with dedicated mentors, training ...

2027 Summer Associate (Intern)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The Summer Associate program will be approximately 8 weeks long and begin in Summer 2027. We're committed to helping our Summer Associates succeed by providing them with dedicated mentors, training ...

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Summer Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$18

$33

How much do summer associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer associate in Chicago, IL is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer associate?

A summer associate job is an intern opportunity in which you can gain practical experience and learn the skills of your trade. Industries from construction to entertainment offer summer associate jobs, but the legal industry is the most common for summer associate jobs. As a law student, you can find summer associate jobs after your first and second years of law school. Your job duties as a legal summer associate include drafting motions and other legal documents, practicing in mock trials, observing or performing litigation alongside an experienced lawyer in court, and conducting legal research.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and feedback as a summer associate?

As a Summer Associate, you will typically be paired with a mentor or supervisor who will guide you through projects and help you acclimate to the firm's culture. Regular feedback sessions are common, both informally during daily work and formally through mid-summer and end-of-program reviews. You'll have opportunities to collaborate with various team members, attend training sessions, and participate in networking events designed specifically for associates. This supportive environment is intended to help you develop professional skills and gain insight into potential career paths within the organization.

What is the difference between Summer Associate vs Summer Intern?

AspectSummer AssociateSummer Intern
CredentialsTypically law students or graduate students in related fieldsUndergraduate students or early-stage graduate students
Work EnvironmentHigh-level legal or professional projects, often client-facingSupport roles, assisting with research and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, consulting firms, investment banksLaw firms, corporations, non-profits

Summer Associates usually have more advanced credentials and work on substantive projects, often with client interaction, while Summer Interns typically perform supportive tasks suitable for early-stage students. Both roles provide valuable industry exposure but differ in responsibilities and experience level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer associate?

To thrive as a Summer Associate, you generally need strong academic credentials, analytical skills, and the ability to conduct thorough research, often supported by progress toward a relevant degree (such as law, business, or finance). Familiarity with industry-specific tools—like legal research databases, financial modeling software, or project management platforms—is typically expected. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and time management skills help candidates stand out in this role. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality work, adapting quickly to new challenges, and contributing effectively during a short-term, intensive program.
What are the most commonly searched types of Summer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Summer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Summer Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Summer Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Summer Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Summer Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Summer Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,533 per year, or $18 per hour.

Summer Associate - Chicago

Hinshaw & Culbertson Llp

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$2.0K/wk

Full-time, Temporary

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

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Openings >> Summer Associate - Chicago
Summer Associate - Chicago
Summary
Title: Summer Associate - Chicago ID: 731229129 Department: Law Students Location: Chicago, IL Salary Range: $2,000 a week Salary Range *Note*: Any offered salary is determined based on internal equity, internal salary range, market data, and applicant skills. Workplace Type: Hybrid
Description
Hinshaw & Culbertson, a leading national firm, is hiring 2027 Summer Associates in its Chicago office.
As a Summer Associate, the candidate will work on litigation and transactional matters for clients of all sizes in the insurance industry, the financial services sector, and other highly regulated industries.  Although the firm views the summer program as a working experience, it is our goal to make a summer position with the firm both intellectually and personally rewarding.
Candidates must be interested in taking the Illinois bar and a 2L at their law school.
To apply, please include a resume, unofficial transcript, and writing sample. 
Summer Law Achievement Scholarship:
We highly encourage you to check out our Summer Law Achievement Scholarship, where you can receive a $5,000 scholarship paid directly to your law school.  For more information on how to apply, go to the Summer Law Achievement Scholarship Job Posting. 
Only candidates contacted for an interview will receive a response. As an EOE/AA employer, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.
Kindly note: Direct applicants only. This position is not accepting recruiter candidates.
Apply Now
 
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