Public Contracting and Complex Litigation Associate

Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive health benefits

401(k) plan with partial matching

Bonuses (performance-based)

Discretionary and billable-hours bonus

Job summary

Burke, Williams & Sorensen LLP seeks an Associate in California with 4–6 years of experience representing public agencies, focusing on contracting, procurement, construction, and related litigation. The ideal candidate will bring experience drafting and negotiating a variety of public agency agreements and substantial litigation exposure in public works matters.

The position offers a hybrid work arrangement in California, with a base salary range of $165,000–$205,000 plus annual bonuses based on

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of experience representing public agencies in California
• Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating public agency agreements (professional services, engineering, procurement, technology)
• Litigation experience in public works and construction disputes (delay, disruption, defective work, surety bond claims)
• CPRA compliance and related advisory work for public agencies
• Excellent writing, research, analytical, and advocacy skills
• Strong client-service orientation; ability to work independently and collaboratively

Responsibilities

• Advise and represent public agencies in contracting, procurement, construction, and related litigation matters in California
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of public agency agreements
• Handle litigation related to public works projects and construction disputes; support CPRA compliance and advisory matters

Skills

Public contracting

Contract drafting & negotiations

Construction litigation

CPRA compliance

Legal writing & research

Client service orientation

Independent & collaborative work

California Bar admission

Education

State Bar of California admission

Job description

Public Contracting and Complex Litigation Associate

Jun 16, 2026

Burke, Williams & Sorensen LLP is a full-service California law firm with deep expertise in public law and municipal representation. We advise cities, counties, special districts, state agencies, and other public entities throughout California. We are seeking an Associate with 4-6 years of experience representing public agencies, with a focus on contracting, procurement, construction, and related litigation matters.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience advising California public agencies on public contracting
• Experience drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a wide range of public agency agreements, including professional services, engineering, procurement, and technology contracts
• Significant litigation experience involving California public works and construction disputes, including delay, disruption, differing site conditions, defective work, and surety bond claims
• Experience assisting with broader public agency litigation matters, including California Public Records Act (CPRA) compliance and related advisory work
• Excellent writing, research, analytical, and advocacy skills
• Strong client-service orientation, sound judgment, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Admission to the State Bar of California

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $165,000-$205,000, plus annual performance-based bonuses. Actual compensation will depend on experience and qualifications.

• hybrid work arrangement
• reasonable billable-hour expectations
• discretionary and billable-hours bonuses
• competitive health benefits
• 401(k) plan with partial matching contributions

Burke is committed to mentoring, professional development, diversity, integrity, and fostering a collaborative environment where attorneys can build successful and fulfilling careers.