Employment and Labor Attorney Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving world of employment and labor law, the need for competent attorneys in this field is more critical than ever.

As workplace dynamics and labor laws continue to change and grow, so does the demand for skilled legal practitioners who can navigate, interpret, and protect the rights and responsibilities within these complex frameworks.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an employment and labor attorney?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or merely fascinated by the intricacies of employment and labor law,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable employment and labor attorney job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Employment and Labor Attorney Duties and Responsibilities

Employment and Labor Attorneys are legal professionals who handle a variety of legal issues related to the employment field, such as employee rights, discrimination, wage disputes, and workplace safety.

Their main role is to provide legal counsel and representation to employers or employees on matters concerning employment laws and regulations.

Employment and Labor Attorneys have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Advise and represent clients in disputes, such as wrongful termination, wage and hour disputes, and employee discrimination cases
• Prepare legal documents, such as employment contracts and policies
• Interpret and advise clients on labor and employment laws and regulations
• Conduct thorough research to provide sound legal advice
• Defend employers in labor disputes and represent them before administrative bodies
• Assist clients in understanding the legal complexities of employment and labor law
• Work on collective bargaining agreements and represent clients in labor negotiations
• Handle employee benefit plans and issues related to employee compensation
• Conduct workplace investigations and interviews
• Keep updated with the latest legal and industry trends for effective counsel

 

Employment and Labor Attorney Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Employment and Labor Attorney to join our legal team.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in handling employment and labor law issues, including dispute resolution, union negotiations, and compliance with labor laws.

The Employment and Labor Attorney will be expected to advise our company on a wide range of employment-related matters and represent us in legal proceedings.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on a wide range of employment and labor law issues
• Handle labor disputes and negotiate resolutions
• Represent the company in court cases and other legal proceedings
• Prepare and review employment contracts and policies
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal labor laws and regulations
• Conduct internal investigations into labor and employment matters
• Train HR and management staff on labor laws and best practices
• Stay informed of developments in employment and labor law

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Employment and Labor Attorney
• Excellent knowledge of labor law and employment legislations
• Experience in litigation and court procedures
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with discretion
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
• Current license to practice law

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Bar dues and professional membership reimbursement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Employment and Labor Attorney
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. Travel may be required for court appearances and client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Attorney or Legal Department Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Employment and Labor Attorney Do?

Employment and Labor Attorneys specialize in representing both employees and employers in matters related to labor laws and employment rights.

For employees, they may handle cases related to workplace discrimination, wrongful termination, wage disputes, or harassment.

They provide legal advice, help employees understand their rights, and represent them in negotiations or court proceedings.

For employers, they provide guidance on labor laws to ensure the company is in compliance.

This can include advising on matters such as employment contracts, workplace policies, employee handbooks, and dispute resolution procedures.

They also represent the company in any legal proceedings, such as labor board hearings or court cases.

Employment and Labor Attorneys often conduct investigations in the workplace to gather evidence for their cases, and they may also be involved in mediation or arbitration proceedings.

They also stay updated on changes in labor law and inform their clients of any relevant updates that might affect their rights or obligations.

 

Employment and Labor Attorney Qualifications and Skills

An employment and labor attorney should possess a comprehensive array of skills and qualifications, such as:

• Thorough understanding of labor laws and employment regulations at both the federal and state level.
• Strong research skills to thoroughly investigate case details, legal precedents, and applicable statutes.
• Excellent communication skills for preparing and delivering persuasive arguments, as well as effectively communicating with clients, judges, and other attorneys.
• Legal drafting ability for creating legally binding documents, contracts, and agreements, as well as formal legal correspondence.
• Superior negotiation skills for resolving disputes between employees and employers and negotiating settlements when necessary.
• Strong problem-solving skills for identifying and implementing legal strategies that best serve the client’s interests.
• Attention to detail to ensure all legal documents are correctly prepared and filed, and all regulations are complied with.
• Interpersonal skills to establish trust and maintain positive relationships with clients.
• Must be licensed to practice law in the state in which they are employed.

 

Employment and Labor Attorney Experience Requirements

For those aspiring to be an Employment and Labor Attorney, the journey begins with a Bachelor’s degree, followed by earning a Juris Doctor degree from a law school.

This process usually takes about 7 years in total.

While in law school, gaining practical experience in labor law through internships or part-time roles can be valuable.

Some law schools also offer courses and practical training in labor law, where students can gain in-depth knowledge of employment issues and the legal implications.

Upon graduation, lawyers must pass their state’s bar examination to become licensed.

Once licensed, they may begin practicing law.

New attorneys usually work as associates for law firms or government agencies, where they gain experience in labor and employment law.

After around 3 to 5 years of experience, attorneys often start taking on more complex cases or may even lead on cases.

They may also gain experience in areas such as arbitration or mediation.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience and are considered seasoned professionals.

They may be ready for senior roles, such as partner at a law firm or heading the legal department in a corporation.

Some may also choose to specialize further, for example in specific areas of employment law like discrimination or collective bargaining.

Continuing education and staying updated with the latest changes in employment and labor laws is also crucial in this role.

This can be gained through professional development courses, workshops, and seminars.

 

Employment and Labor Attorney Education and Training Requirements

Employment and Labor Attorneys typically must have a bachelor’s degree followed by a three-year law degree from an accredited law school.

As part of their law degree, they should focus on courses that cover labor law, employment law, employment discrimination, and administrative law.

Some law schools offer certificates or concentrations in employment and labor law.

Following law school, they must pass their state’s bar exam to practice law.

Some states require attorneys to pass an ethics exam as well.

Further, to specialize in labor and employment law, attorneys often pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) in Labor and Employment Law.

This advanced degree provides an in-depth understanding of employment and labor law issues.

Attorneys are also encouraged to seek certification from the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC) or similar bodies, which certifies attorneys as specialists in labor and employment law.

Continuing education is also important for Employment and Labor Attorneys as they need to stay updated with changing laws and regulations.

These can be achieved through seminars, workshops, and courses.

Internships or work experience in labor or employment law firms during or after law school can also provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

 

Employment and Labor Attorney Salary Expectations

An Employment and Labor Attorney earns an average salary of $116,500 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary greatly based on factors such as years of experience, the prestige of the law school the attorney attended, the size of the firm, and the region in which they practice.

 

Employment and Labor Attorney Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Employment and Labor Attorney need?

Employment and Labor Attorneys need a comprehensive understanding of labor laws and regulations.

They should possess excellent research skills to dig into cases and come up with valid legal arguments.

Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential for this role.

They should also be organized, analytical, and good at problem-solving to manage and win cases.

 

Do Employment and Labor Attorneys need a specific degree?

Yes, Employment and Labor Attorneys need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

They must also pass the bar examination in the state where they intend to practice.

 

What should you look for in an Employment and Labor Attorney’s resume?

An Employment and Labor Attorney’s resume should highlight their education, bar certification, and any specialization in employment and labor law.

It should also list any relevant experience, such as internships or work with law firms specializing in labor and employment law.

Skills like negotiation, mediation, research, and litigation should also be mentioned.

 

What qualities make a good Employment and Labor Attorney?

A good Employment and Labor Attorney should have a deep understanding of employment and labor laws.

They should be excellent communicators, capable of explaining complex legal terms to clients.

Good attorneys are also ethical, demonstrating a strong commitment to justice.

They should be organized, meticulous, and possess great analytical skills to piece together information and create compelling legal strategies.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Employment and Labor Attorney?

Hiring an Employment and Labor Attorney can be challenging as it requires ensuring the candidate has the right education, certifications, and experience in this specific field of law.

It’s important to carefully evaluate their understanding of employment and labor laws, negotiation skills, and their ability to represent and protect your organization’s interests effectively.

Hiring a legal recruitment agency may be helpful in this process.

 

Conclusion

Thus, we’ve come full circle.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it means to be an employment and labor attorney.

And guess what?

It’s not only about arguing cases in the courtroom.

It’s about shaping the labor market, one legal case at a time.

With our ready-to-use employment and labor attorney job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously drafted job postings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every legal case forms a part of the broader labor landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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