Real Estate Associate

Catalyst Labs; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading national law firm in Chicago is seeking an attorney with 3 to 6 years of transactional real estate experience. The role involves supporting complex transactions, advising clients on real estate issues, and collaborating with senior attorneys. The ideal candidate should have knowledge of joint ventures, a strong academic record, and exceptional communication skills. This full-time, onsite position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic legal environment while contributing to a growing practice group.

Qualifications

• 3 to 6 years of broad and sophisticated transactional real estate experience.
• Admission to the Missouri Bar or ability to waive in through the Uniform Bar Examination.
• Experience at larger law firms with exposure to complex real estate matters.

Responsibilities

• Support complex real estate transactions including acquisitions and dispositions.
• Assist with joint venture matters, financing transactions, and drafting documentation.
• Advise clients on sophisticated real estate issues.

Skills

Transactional real estate experience

Research skills

Writing skills

Communication skills

Team-oriented mindset

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Strong academic history (GPA > 3.0)

Job description

A widely respected national law firm with a substantial footprint across major U.S. cities, they operate with a team of over a thousand attorneys. Known for strong client relationships and consistently high service standards, the firm offers practical, business-focused legal advice across areas such as health care, real estate, finance, technology, private equity, and corporate transactions. Their deep industry knowledge and commitment to clear, solution-oriented guidance help clients navigate complex legal issues and support long-term business goals.

About Us

Catalyst Labs talent partners with a specialized vertical in the legal industry, with a dedicated focus on placing top-tier attorneys, legal operations professionals, and leadership talent.

We work closely with Managing Partners, Practice Group Leaders, and Chiefs of Legal Operations who are shaping the future of modern law from complex litigation and emerging regulatory landscapes to high-stakes transactional work. We take pride in facilitating conversations that match your legal expertise, analytical mindset, and professional trajectory with firms that value precision, judgment, and excellence in the evolving world of legal practice.

Work type: Full Time, Onsite.

Responsibilities

• Support complex real estate transactions including acquisitions, dispositions, development projects, and title and survey review
• Assist with joint venture matters, financing transactions, and drafting related documentation
• Advise clients on sophisticated real estate issues with clarity and sound judgment
• Manage transactional processes with accuracy, timeliness, and strong attention to detail
• Collaborate with partners and senior attorneys on national scale matters
• Build strong relationships with sophisticated clients and maintain a high level of professionalism
• Contribute to a growing and collaborative practice group and engage in ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• 3 to 6 years of broad and sophisticated transactional real estate experience
• Admission to the Missouri Bar or ability to waive in through the Uniform Bar Examination
• Experience at larger law firms with exposure to complex real estate matters
• Strong academic history with a grade point average above three point zero
• Experience with joint ventures and real estate financing
• Exceptional research, writing, and communication skills
• Strong work ethic and a team oriented mindset
• Ability to learn complex subject matter quickly and operate effectively in a fast