Workers' Compensation Litigation Associate

About the company Our client is a law firm. The role Raydar is recruiting for this role on behalf of our client. Represent defense-side clients in California workers' compensation disputes, handling matters from intake through contested hearings. The position involves daily collaboration with senior lawyers, ongoing client updates and a structured path for developing skills and taking on more responsibility. What you'll do - Carry a varied docket of workers' compensation files for employers, carriers and claims administrators. - Guide each file through its lifecycle, from initial assessment and document exchange to appearances before the state appeals board. - Collaborate every day with supervising attorneys and partners in a team setting. - Respond to claims of retaliation, allegations of egregious employer misconduct, and suspected fraud by claimants, lien holders and service providers. - Keep clients updated on developments as each case progresses. - Conduct and defend witness examinations under oath, gaining independence as your experience deepens. - Build your expertise through in-house training and a mentoring program, with the chance to branch into neighboring practice areas. Requirements What we're looking for - A law degree from an accredited school. - Current good standing with the California bar. - Between 1 and 8 years of hands-on litigation experience in workers' compensation, on either the defense or applicant side. - A background acting for employers, insurers or claims administrators in this area of law. - Firsthand experience appearing at appeals board hearings. - Working knowledge of California workers' compensation statutes and hearing procedure. - Solid research and writing ability. - Sound judgment in assessing cases, managing discovery and shaping strategy. - Clear, proactive communication with clients about where their cases stand. - A self-directed approach combined with a collaborative style. - Willingness to work an 11-hour billable day. - Residence within commuting distance of one of the California office locations. - Compensation expectations in line with the posted range. Bonus points - Experience taking or defending depositions. - Exposure to trials or arbitrations in workers' compensation. - Ambition for long-range career progression within the firm. Benefits Compensation and benefits - Base salary: USD 125,000 to 175,000 per year - Performance bonus Location and work model - Los Angeles, Inland Empire, Costa Mesa or San Francisco, California, United States - Hybrid, with remote flexibility several days per week; in-office for collaborative work and court days - Full-time