Labor Relations Counsel

State of California; California; On-site; USD 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive, quality, and affordable benefits

Enhanced benefits including CoBen allowance

Additional vacation/annual leave

Job summary

The State of California is seeking an Attorney to serve in the Department of Human Resources Legal Division. This role involves litigating diverse labor and employment cases while maintaining a collaborative work environment. Candidates must possess strong legal communication skills and experience in labor law. The position offers competitive benefits, including enhanced leave and life insurance coverage. Successful candidates will work within a supportive team of attorneys in California, focusing on cases from inception to resolution.

Qualifications

• Excellent written and oral communication skills are mandatory.
• Practical experience litigating before courts or administrative agencies required.
• Strong legal research and analytical abilities needed.

Responsibilities

• Litigate labor and employment cases in civil courts.
• Represent CalHR in civil litigation.
• Conduct workplace investigations and provide legal counsel.

Skills

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Litigation experience

Experience in labor and employment law

Legal research and analytical abilities

Ability to work independently

Job description

Join the California Department of Human Resources Legal Division as an Attorney.

About this Role

Serve as the first chair attorney litigating administrative hearings and arguing writs, motions, and appeals in civil court while maintaining a work‑life balance and collaborating with a supportive team.

Responsibilities

• Litigate diverse labor and employment cases, including arguing writs, motions, and appeals in civil courts.
• Represent CalHR and other state departments in civil litigation, including state and federal courts, and appellate courts in labor law matters.
• Lay out workplace investigations, conduct trainings, and provide in‑house counsel on employment and personnel matters.
• Consult on and draft legal opinions for high‑level executives on sensitive issues and projects.
• Own the majority of cases from inception to resolution and serve as the primary attorney for each matter.
• Work within a team of approximately 15–20 attorneys, receiving support and mentorship opportunities.
• Perform entry‑level and progressive legal work depending on the assigned complexity and sensitivity, under the direction of an Assistant Chief Counsel and guided by the Chief and Deputy Counsel.

Qualifications

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Practical experience litigating before superior or federal courts, and/or administrative agencies.
• Experience in labor and employment law and administrative law.
• Strong legal research and analytical abilities.
• Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced environment.

Minimum Requirements

• Licensed attorney full‑time employment.

Benefits

• Competitive, quality, and affordable benefits for employees, retirees, and dependents.
• Enhanced benefits, including CoBen benefit allowance and employer‑paid life insurance.
• Additional vacation/annual leave and exemption from State Disability Insurance payroll withholding.