Real Estate Associate

Simpson Judge USA; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading law firm in Chicago is looking for a mid-level commercial real estate attorney. The role offers the chance to engage in all aspects of commercial real estate, including acquisitions, leasing, and the structuring of loan documents. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience and possess strong drafting and negotiation skills. The firm emphasizes collaboration and offers a high degree of autonomy in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 5th year or more senior associates in commercial real estate are preferred.
• Proven experience in ground-up development, acquisitions, dispositions, and leasing.
• Strong experience representing lenders, developers, and/or general contractors.

Responsibilities

• Structuring, drafting, and negotiating commercial real estate loan documents.
• Leading lender-side representation on acquisition, refinancing, and construction loans.
• Coordinating due diligence and managing deal timelines.

Skills

Commercial real estate experience

Excellent drafting skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Detail-oriented approach

Job description

Location: Chicago (Remote and Hybrid split - 2/3 days)

Salary: $180,000 - $240,000 + Bonus incentive

Billables: No requirement however attorneys in this team sit between 1750 - 1900

The firm and practice:

The firm has experienced steady, organic growth since its founding in 1990 and has been headquartered in the heart of downtown Chicago throughout that time. Its Real Estate group manages commercial real estate transactions across the country. The team is seeking a mid-level commercial real estate attorney to join a driven, high‑performing group that values true collaboration while maintaining a genuine commitment to work‑life balance.

About the Role:

The practice spans the full lifecycle of commercial real estate development and investment, including:

• Acquisitions and dispositions
• Leasing for newly constructed and long-standing properties
• Drafting declarations, easements, and negotiating joint venture and loan agreement

Your work will include:

• Structuring, drafting, and negotiating commercial real estate loan documents
• Leading lender‑side representation on acquisition, refinancing, and construction loans
• Coordinating due diligence, including review of title, survey, zoning, and property‑level documentation
• Managing deal timelines and collaborating with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Advising clients on risk, strategy, and market trends
• Supporting junior team members and contributing to practice development as the group continues to expand

What They're Looking For:

• 5th year or more senior associates in commercial real estate
• Experience in ground‑up development, acquisitions, dispositions, and leasing
• Strong experience representing lenders, developers, and/or general contractors
• Commercial real estate experience across multiple jurisdictions, with some exposure to cross border deals is a plus
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex transactions simultaneously
• A proactive, detail-oriented, and collaborative approach

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

Exposure to all aspects of commercial real estate from acquisitions and financing to development and leasing, with low‑red tape and true autonomy. Hands‑on, nationwide experience, including large-scale ground‑up developments and international projects

If this role aligns with your experience or if you’re interested in learning about other opportunities, please reach out directly: