Senior Legal Counsel

Job Summary: The Senior Counsel will serve as the primary legal advisor to the company’s leadership on all employee and employer claims and litigation, with experience in labor and union negotiations and/or workers' compensation preferred. The Senior Counsel will collaborate closely with the Chief Legal Officer, General Counsel and the Human Resources departments to ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws, and proactively support the organization’s risk management and compliance initiatives. This role requires an in-depth understanding of California labor and employment laws as well as a proven track record of managing complex legal matters related to workers' compensation and employee disputes. Pay Range: $180,000 - $200,000 Key Responsibilities: Employee & Employer Claims and Litigation: - Oversee and manage all employee-related claims, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, wage and hour disputes, and other employment litigation. - Develop strategies to minimize litigation risks and manage the resolution of claims through negotiation, mediation, and litigation when necessary. - Represent or oversee outside counsel in employment-related litigation, arbitrations, and administrative hearings. Workers' Compensation Oversight: - Collaborate with Legal and Human Resources departments to evaluate and manage workers' compensation claims, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and company policies. - Work with adjusters, case managers, and medical professionals to facilitate the resolution of claims. - Provide legal guidance on return-to-work policies and procedures. Compliance with Labor and Employment Laws: - Advise Human Resources and other departments on compliance with California labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, leave laws (FMLA, CFRA, etc.), employee classification, and workplace safety. - Monitor and assess the impact of new or changing laws, regulations, and case law developments. - Develop and update internal policies to align with current legal standards and mitigate risk. Risk Management & Internal Investigations: - Conduct or oversee internal investigations related to employee complaints, compliance issues, or other matters that may lead to litigation or regulatory scrutiny. - Assist in developing risk management strategies and provide training to management and staff to ensure legal compliance across the organization. Collaborative Support: - Work closely with Human Resources, Compliance, Operations, and other departments to support organizational goals, ensuring the legal soundness of policies and practices. - Provide training to management and staff on legal issues such as employment law, workers' compensation, and litigation avoidance. Regulatory Compliance & Reporting: - Ensure compliance with state and federal regulatory requirements related to employment law, including reporting obligations to the appropriate agencies. - Assist in preparing responses to government inquiries or audits as needed. Qualifications: - Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school. - Active membership in the California State Bar. - Minimum of 4-5 years of legal experience, preferably with a focus on employment law and workers' compensation. - Experience working in or with healthcare or nursing home facilities is highly desirable. - Strong knowledge of California labor and employment laws, including wage and hour regulations, leave laws, and workers' compensation. - Proven ability to handle complex litigation, including court proceedings, administrative hearings, and mediation. - Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. - Ability to work collaboratively across departments and influence outcomes without direct authority. - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Preferred Skills: - Experience managing external counsel and legal budgets. - Familiarity with the healthcare industry, particularly skilled nursing or long-term care environments. - Experience conducting internal investigations and risk management.