Employment Senior Associate

About Colin Biggers & Paisley

Colin Biggers & Paisley is a distinguished legal practice committed to delivering impactful solutions for clients, contributing to communities, and fostering rewarding careers. Renowned in the construction, property, insurance sectors, and with strong expertise in employment, safety, banking, finance, corporate, commercial law, litigation, and dispute resolution, the firm upholds values of balance, respect, loyalty, and integrity. The workplace culture emphasizes excellence alongside work-life balance, supporting the health and wellbeing of its employees. Investments into professional development include formal mentoring, learning opportunities, health and fitness perks, rewards, complimentary massages, and professional memberships.

The firm's community engagement is channeled through the Colin Biggers & Paisley Foundation, which integrates pro bono legal services, volunteering, and charitable contributions with a focus on protecting the rights of women, children, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Position Overview

The Melbourne-based Employment Senior Associate will join the employment law team handling diverse responsibilities including:

• Acting on behalf of clients in conciliations, mediations, arbitrations, and court proceedings as needed
• Partnering with external legal counsel to craft strategic case plans aimed at successful resolutions
• Overseeing defense and resolution of employment claims through drafting legal documents such as defenses, responses, and settlement agreements
• Providing clients with strategic legal advice on employment law compliance, risk management, workplace policies, and practices
• Delivering commercially oriented legal advice tailored to client needs
• Leading thorough investigations and fact-finding related to employment disputes
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of pertinent case law and legislative developments
• Conducting comprehensive legal research and analysis to generate timely, accurate, and actionable advice
• Effectively managing workloads and prioritizing tasks to ensure service quality and efficiency
• Understanding client business operations and strategic goals to foster strong partnerships
• Mentoring junior solicitors and support personnel to promote professional growth and expertise sharing

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience specifically in employment law
• Detail-oriented with an ability to follow instructions accurately
• Interpersonal skills enabling effective collaboration with diverse organisational levels and teamwork
• Strong ability to work under pressure, focusing on quick turnaround times
• Pragmatic and client-centered approach to problem-solving and legal research
• Clear, straightforward communication style both written and verbal
• Advanced investigative, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities
• Proficient communication and negotiation skills
• Experience managing multiple complex employment-related claims simultaneously while maintaining meticulous attention to detail

Culture and Benefits

The firm cultivates a culture that values professional excellence without compromising work-life balance. Employees enjoy access to discounted national gym memberships, participation in internal sports teams, and complimentary massages. The firm is committed to career advancement and personal development, investing continually to support employee growth.

Inclusion and Diversity form a vital part of the firm’s philosophy, embracing diversity across gender, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and ability, and promoting an inclusive environment for all. Applications from individuals of any background, including diverse gender identities, ages, sexual orientations, disabilities, or ethnicities, are welcomed.