Employment Law Partner; PAGA

Overview

Job Title:
Employment Law Partner (PAGA)

Location:

Hybrid; commutable distance to 1 of 10 offices. Remote-first with conservative on-site presence across Southern and Northern California offices (including Orange County, Los Angeles, and Sacramento).

We’re representing a prominent and well-respected employment law firm dedicated to the defense of employers, supporting a diverse spectrum of employer clients. The role offers autonomy within a supportive infrastructure and a client-first environment focused on growth.

Core Responsibilities:

• 1. PAGA Litigation:
  • Manage and oversee PAGA claims, including class action-style lawsuits, ensuring strategic development, legal filings, and representation in settlement negotiations or trial.
  • Develop and execute legal strategies tailored to PAGA claims, balancing risk, settlement potential, and litigation costs.
  • Monitor and manage the discovery process, working with teams to gather evidence, deposing key witnesses, and preparing for hearings or trials.
• 2. Client Advisory & Compliance:
  • Provide counsel on compliance with California labor laws, conduct audits, and advise clients on best practices to mitigate PAGA risks and prevent future claims.
  • Assist clients in developing and implementing policies related to wage and hour issues, employee classification, and meal/rest break compliance.
  • Evaluate and advise on the impact of new legislation or case law affecting PAGA claims, ensuring clients stay ahead of regulatory changes.
• 3. Client Relationship & Business Development:
  • Foster and expand client relationships, offer ongoing legal support, and identify opportunities for business development within the PAGA practice area.
  • Develop and deliver presentations, workshops, or training on PAGA compliance and litigation to current and prospective clients.
  • Cultivate new client leads through networking, industry events, and leveraging the firm’s reputation in employment law.
• 4. Team Supervision & Mentorship:
  • Supervise and mentor junior attorneys and staff, ensuring high-quality work and providing guidance on PAGA-related legal matters.
  • Review and approve legal work, including motions, pleadings, and discovery responses, to ensure compliance and quality.
  • Foster a collaborative work environment, encouraging professional growth and ensuring that team members stay up-to-date with PAGA developments and strategies.

• 8+ years of defense-focused experience (senior or partner level), preferably with school district defense background.
• Civil trial experience (1st or 2nd chair) is preferred.
• Must be defense-sided—avoid all plaintiff-side attorneys.
• 80% or more of recent work in EL (employment litigation) matters over the last 5 years.
• Well-established and exclusive employment litigation defense background.
• Trial experience preferred, but not required.
• Knowledge of class actions and PAGA inclusion.
• Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees;
  Member of the State Bar of California in good standing.
• Superior research, analytical, and negotiating abilities; excellent written and oral communication.
• Commitment to proactive case management.

(This is a truncated job description and may be expanded or revised.)

The projected annual salary is estimated at $230,000 – $300,000 per year, representing the low and high ends of the range. The actual starting rate may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the position offered, work experience, education, training, and commensurate experience.

If your salary expectations differ, please share your ideal compensation range.

Talent Xpanse and our clients are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing a workplace that is inclusive and free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.

We are dedicated to fostering an environment that promotes equality and celebrates diversity.