Traditional Labor Attorney (Principal)

Job Description
Direct Counsel is representing a prominent firm seeking an experienced Traditional Labor Attorney with 7 years of relevant experience to join its Labor, Employment & Immigration Group. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing team within a supportive and dynamic environment. The firm offers a collaborative culture with a strong focus on client service.

The attorney will primarily assist employers with collective bargaining, labor law compliance, and the administration of union contracts. Additional responsibilities will include representing employers at the bargaining table, responding to representation petitions, litigating grievance disputes and unfair labor practice charges when necessary, and managing labor-related compliance matters. The ideal candidate will have significant experience leading collective bargaining negotiations, litigating representation matters, grievance arbitration, and managing complex labor issues.

Responsibilities

• Represent employers at collective bargaining sessions.

• Handle grievance disputes and unfair labor practice charges.

• Advise on labor law compliance and union contract administration.

• Lead and manage collective bargaining negotiations, including experience as “First Chair.”

• Oversee representation petitions, hearings, and agency proceedings.

• Collaborate with internal teams to deliver effective client solutions.

• Engage in pro bono and public service matters.

Job Requirements
A successful candidate will have:

• 7 years of experience in traditional labor law, including collective bargaining, agency hearings, and grievance arbitration.

• Leadership experience in collective bargaining and representation petitions.

• A partially portable book of business ($250,000 - $500,000) is preferred.

• Experience with healthcare and/or public entities is a plus.

• Strong client-service orientation and excellent communication skills.

• Enthusiasm for working with and building a diverse team.

• Ability to manage significant individual responsibilities.

• JD from an ABA-accredited law school.

• License to practice law in Washington or Oregon (or willingness to obtain).

Salary and Compensation
The annual salary range for this position is $200,000 - $325,000, depending on experience, location, and other factors. In addition to a competitive salary, the firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, commuter allowance, disability and life insurance, parental leave, and billable hours for approved diversity, equity, inclusion, and pro bono work.

Diversity and Inclusion
The firm is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Opportunity & Progress Council (OPC) leads efforts to break down barriers and foster an inclusive, collaborative environment. Diversity is integral to the firm’s success in providing innovative legal services.

Direct Counsel is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, political ideology, familial relationships, or status in any other legally protected group.