Labor & Employment Attorney

Direct Counsel

Portland, OR

$160K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Direct Counsel is partnering with a leading national law firm to add a mid-level Labor & Employment Attorney to its Portland or Seattle office. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney who enjoys a mix of litigation and counseling work and wants to join a practice known for its collaborative, business-minded approach.

About the Role

The ideal candidate will bring:

  • 3+ years of solid litigation experience (employment cases preferred)

  • Oregon Bar admission (Washington admission preferred or willingness to waive in)

  • Strong writing, analysis, and time-management skills

  • Experience with employment counseling—such as handbook drafting or employment agreements—is a plus but not required

You’ll handle a blend of employment litigation and preventative counseling, supporting clients as they navigate fast-moving workplace issues.

About the Practice

The firm’s Labor & Employment Group works closely with employers across industries—from closely held companies to national financial institutions, manufacturers, retailers, and restaurant groups. Their approach is rooted in practical, proactive risk management—helping clients stay compliant, avoid exposure, and respond decisively when disputes arise.

Attorneys in this group handle:

  • Day-to-day advice & compliance guidance

  • Handbook & policy development

  • Employment-related agreements

  • Defense of employment litigation across a wide range of claims

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary Range: $160,000 – $230,000

  • Annual Performance Bonuses (based on productivity)

  • Unlimited PTO

  • Nine paid holidays

  • Medical, dental, vision & basic life insurance

  • 401(k)

  • Full suite of competitive benefits

Firm Culture & Values

Joining this team means stepping into a dynamic, growth-oriented environment that genuinely values collaboration, client service, and attorney development. Inclusivity has been a core principle for more than 80 years, and the firm proudly fosters a workplace where diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and identities are recognized as strengths.



About Direct Counsel

Direct Counsel partners with leading law firms and in-house legal departments nationwide to connect talented attorneys with outstanding opportunities. We take pride in matching professionals with roles that align with their expertise, values, and long-term career goals.


If you’re a skilled Labor & Employment Attorney ready to advance your career and take on complex, business-critical cases, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply confidentially by sending your resume to sagan@directcounsel.net



Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Associate Attorney?

A: To succeed as an Associate Attorney, key technical skills include proficiency in legal research, contract review, and litigation procedures, as well as knowledge of relevant laws and regulations. Soft skills such as strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, along with excellent time management and organizational skills, are also crucial for success in this role. By combining these technical and soft skills, Associate Attorneys can effectively support senior attorneys, manage cases, and contribute to the growth and success of their law firm or organization.

Q: What is the career path for a Associate Attorney?

A: A typical career progression for an Associate Attorney involves starting as a Junior Associate, where they assist senior attorneys with case preparation and research, then advancing to a Senior Associate role, where they take on more complex cases and lead smaller teams. Along the way, they develop key skills such as litigation, negotiation, and leadership, as well as opportunities to specialize in a particular area of law. Ultimately, Associate Attorneys can progress to Partner or Senior Counsel roles, or transition into in-house counsel positions, government roles, or academia, leveraging their expertise and experience to drive their long-term career growth.



Direct Counsel job posting for a Labor & Employment Attorney in Portland, OR with a salary of $160,000 to $230,000 Annually and benefits including Medical, Vision, Dental, PTO, Life, and Retirement with a map of Portland location.