We are seeking a seasoned Senior Litigation Counsel with deep expertise in employment law to join our in-house legal team. This role will focus on managing employment-related litigation and disputes, advising on employment policies and compliance, and supporting HR and business leaders on sensitive personnel matters. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on litigation experience, strategic thinking, and a collaborative mindset to help navigate complex employment issues in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
Primary Responsibilities
· Employment Litigation Management: Oversee all aspects of employment-related litigation, including pre-litigation disputes, active cases, mediations, arbitrations, and appeals. Manage outside counsel and ensure strategic, cost-effective representation.
· Legal Strategy Development: Analyze employment law issues and develop litigation and dispute resolution strategies to minimize risk and achieve favorable outcomes.
· Advice and Counseling: Provide proactive legal advice and counseling to the Human Resources department on a wide range of employment law issues, including hiring practices, employee relations, performance management, disciplinary actions, terminations, accommodations, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
· Policy and Compliance: Draft, review, and update employment policies, handbooks, and training materials to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
· Monitoring Trends: Stay current on employment law developments and industry trends that may impact the company.
Required Competencies
· Demonstrated experience managing employment litigation and dispute resolution.
· Deep knowledge of employment laws including Title VII, ADA, FMLA, FLSA, and state equivalents.
· Strong understanding of litigation processes in both state and federal courts.
· Proven ability to manage complex matters and collaborate across departments.
· Familiarity with alternative dispute resolution methods.
· Excellent writing, communication, and negotiation skills.
· Ability to work at both strategic and tactical levels in a “no ego” team environment.
· Orientation toward process improvement and scalable legal solutions.
· Ability to manage budget/cost center and prioritize high-demand workload.
Education and Experience
· Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
· Active bar membership in good standing in Texas.
· Minimum of 7 years of employment litigation experience, preferably with a mix of law firm and in-house roles.