Gemology Search

Gemology is conducting a confidential search on behalf of a highly respected national business law firm seeking a Labor & Employment Litigation Associate to join its growing Orange County office in Irvine, CA.

This opportunity is ideal for an attorney looking to build a long-term career within a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where attorneys receive meaningful client responsibility, sophisticated litigation experience, and strong mentorship from experienced employment practitioners.

The practice represents employers across a broad range of industries, partnering with businesses to proactively manage workplace issues while defending complex employment disputes through every stage of litigation.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary: $175,000–$250,000, depending on experience.
• Annual performance-based bonus opportunity.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Unlimited paid time off.
• Paid holidays.
• Hybrid work flexibility.

Responsibilities

• Represent employers in state and federal employment litigation.
• Handle wage and hour class actions and Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) matters.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and dispositive motions.
• Take and defend depositions.
• Participate in mediations, court appearances, arbitrations, and trial preparation.
• Advise clients on employment law compliance and day-to-day workplace issues.
• Develop practical legal strategies that balance litigation risk with business objectives.
• Work closely with experienced attorneys on sophisticated employment matters involving a diverse client base.

Qualifications

• Active California Bar license.
• Employment litigation experience.
• Experience defending wage and hour and PAGA matters.
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple matters while working collaboratively within a team.
• Experience providing employment advice and counsel is preferred but not required.
• OSHA and/or Cal/OSHA experience is a plus.