Litigation Associate - Complex Litigation/Environmental Litigation

Recruiting From Scratch; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 260,000 - 365,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Generous PTO

Professional development stipends

Job summary

A premier global law firm in San Francisco is looking for a Litigation Associate with 3–5 years of experience to manage complex litigation and environmental cases. The role offers direct courtroom exposure, collaboration with top-tier partners, and the opportunity to develop a robust litigation skill set. The ideal candidate will possess strong legal research and analytical skills. Comprehensive benefits and a competitive salary range from $260,000 to $365,000 are included.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of litigation experience at a top-tier law firm.
• Strong academic credentials from a top 30 law school or equivalent.
• Experience in complex commercial litigation or regulatory matters.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex litigation and environmental cases.
• Conduct legal research, draft briefs, and prepare for court.
• Collaborate with senior partners and associates.

Skills

Litigation experience

Research skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Collaboration skills

Education

Top 30 law school degree

Job description

Recruiting from Scratch is a specialized talent firm dedicated to helping companies build exceptional teams. We partner closely with our clients to deeply understand their needs, then connect them with top-tier candidates who are not only highly skilled but also the right fit for the company’s culture and vision. Our mission is simple: place the best people in the right roles to drive long-term success for both clients and candidates.

Title of Role: Litigation Associate – Complex & Environmental Litigation

Location: San Francisco, CA (On-site, 3–5 days/week)

Company Stage of Funding: Established Global Law Firm

Office Type: Full-Time, In-Office

Salary: $260,000 – $365,000 (based on experience)

Company Description

We are representing a premier, globally recognized law firm known for its elite litigation, regulatory, and corporate practices. The firm has grown significantly in recent years, investing heavily in its litigation group and expanding its national footprint. You’ll be joining one of the most respected complex litigation and environmental law teams in the country — known for handling high-stakes, high-impact matters across industries.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated mid-level associate to gain direct trial exposure, work alongside nationally recognized partners, and develop a sophisticated litigation skill set in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.

What You Will Do

• Manage and contribute to complex litigation and environmental cases, including class actions, regulatory disputes, and enforcement defense.
• Conduct advanced legal research, draft briefs, and prepare for court appearances and trials.
• Collaborate closely with senior partners and associates across multiple offices (San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and Washington D.C.).
• Take ownership of case strategy, discovery, motion practice, and client communications.
• Receive ongoing mentorship and professional development opportunities through hands-on guidance from top-tier partners and senior associates.

Ideal Candidate Background

• 3–5 years of litigation experience at a top-tier law firm (Am Law 50 or comparable).
• Strong academic credentials from a top 30 law school (or top performance at another accredited institution).
• Demonstrated experience in complex commercial litigation, regulatory matters, or environmental litigation.
• Exceptional research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Comfortable in a fast-moving, in-office team setting.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with a proactive, detail-oriented mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Federal judicial clerkship experience.
• Prior exposure to environmental, energy, or regulatory disputes.
• Experience handling matters that proceeded to trial or active motion practice.

Compensation and Benefits

• Base Salary: $260,000 – $365,000 depending on experience and seniority.
• Bonus: Performance-based year-end bonuses reflective of individual and firm-wide success.
• Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; wellness programs; generous PTO; and professional development stipends.
• Work Environment: Collaborative and high-performing in-office culture, with exposure to leading partners and clients across the U.S.

Why This Role Is Exciting:

• Direct exposure to courtroom and trial work — not just research and writing.
• Opportunity to collaborate with nationally renowned partners on landmark environmental and regulatory matters.
• Hands-on mentorship and career advancement opportunities within a rapidly growing litigation practice.
• Join a firm that values excellence, professional growth, and meaningful client impact.