Transactional Labor & Employment Associate

Labor & Employment Associate | Transactional FocusIndustry AttorneysSalary $260,000 - $390,000Date Opened 07/21/2026Job Type Full timeWork Experience 3-6 yearsCity ChicagoState/Province IllinoisCountry United StatesZip/Postal Code 60601Job DescriptionLabor & Employment Associate | Transactional Focus | AmLaw 100 Platform Chicago, Dallas, Charlotte, or Pittsburgh. Our AmLaw 100 client is building out a Labor and Employment group that sits directly inside high-value deal work. This is a 3–6 year role for associates who want more than advisory or litigation lanes and prefer to be embedded in transactions where personnel issues shape outcomes. You will work alongside corporate deal teams and private equity sponsors on matters where employment considerations affect valuation, structure, and post-closing execution. The practice blends transactional support with strategic counseling on executive mobility, restrictive covenants, and sensitive workforce decisions.Role SummarySupport labor and employment diligence in M&A and private equity dealsDraft and negotiate executive employment, separation, and restrictive covenant agreementsAdvise on non-compete and non-solicit enforceability across jurisdictionsGuide post-closing workforce integration and leadership transitionsWork directly with senior executives on governance and personnel risk tied to transactionsCandidate Profile3–6 years of experience in labor and employment or corporate transactional workExposure to M&A or private equity transactions preferredStrong drafting background with employment and restrictive covenant agreementsComfortable operating in deal-driven environments with tight timelinesClear communicator with sound judgment and the ability to prioritize under pressureWhy This RoleThis is not a traditional L&E seat. You are positioned at the intersection of employment law and corporate transactions, working on matters where your input carries weight in real time. The group is integrated with deal teams, giving you visibility into strategy, client decision-making, and sponsor priorities. The firm continues to invest in technology, including AI-driven tools, to reduce administrative work and keep associates focused on higher-value analysis.

Compensation is at the top of the market, with a base range of $260K to $390K, plus bonus opportunities. Multiple office options including Chicago, Dallas, Charlotte, and Pittsburgh. If you are in a traditional L&E or corporate seat and want exposure to more complex, transaction-driven work, this is worth a conversation.