My client, a well-established California-based law firm, is seeking an Employment Law Partner with a focus on school district defense. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned employment litigator to join a collaborative, growth-minded practice that places strong emphasis on work-life balance and professional development.
The successful candidate will represent school districts and educational institutions in complex employment litigation and advisory matters, while contributing to the continued strategic expansion of the firm.
Key Responsibilities
Represent school districts and public entities in defense of employment disputes, including wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims.
Manage all phases of litigation: discovery, motion practice, agency complaints, hearings, and trial (1st or 2nd chair).
Provide strategic legal counsel to school boards, HR leaders, and administrators on compliance with Title IX, ADA, FMLA, and collective bargaining issues.
Draft and review employment policies, contracts, and procedures to ensure compliance with employment and education law.
Deliver training and workshops on employment law topics including discrimination prevention, tenure practices, and union negotiations.
Requirements
JD degree and active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
Minimum of 8 years of employment law experience, with at least 80% of practice dedicated to employment litigation within the past 5 years.
Proven experience representing school districts or public entities in defense litigation.
Exclusive defense-side litigation experience required.
Civil trial experience (1st or 2nd chair) strongly preferred.
Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to advise at the executive/board level.
Benefits
Salary: $230,000 – $300,000 plus quarterly bonus opportunities.
Unlimited PTO for attorneys.
Remote flexibility with access to offices across California. (Flexible – offices in El Segundo, Fresno, Oakland, Ontario, Orange, Redding, Sacramento, San Diego, San Jose, and Westlake Village, CA)
Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and pet insurance.
11 paid holidays per year.
401(k) with employer matching after one year.
Vacation credit accrual.
Cell phone reimbursement.
Regular firm-sponsored events and team gatherings.
Collaborative, professional, and supportive work culture.
Skills Required
- JD degree and active membership in good standing with the California State Bar
- Minimum of 8 years of employment law experience
- Proven experience representing school districts or public entities in defense litigation
- Exclusive defense-side litigation experience
- Civil trial experience (1st or 2nd chair) strongly preferred
- Strong communication and leadership skills
What We Do
Eklabre is a strategic talent acquisition and executive search firm specializing in finding top talent for executive and leadership roles, offering comprehensive talent solutions.
