Associate Attorney - Transportation Insurance Defense

Our client, a highly specialized and family-oriented boutique law firm, is seeking an Associate Attorney to join their maritime insurance defense practice. This role offers the opportunity to grow within a deeply supportive training environment, gain exposure to complex and high-impact maritime matters, participate in global casualty response and major marine investigations, and work within a drama-free, close-knit, no-ego team committed to collaboration and professional excellence.

Associate Attorney – Transportation Insurance Defense Benefits and Compensation:

• Competitive base salary ranging from $135,000 to $185,000 DOE, flexibility for more experienced candidates.
• Medical insurance with 75% employer contribution for employees and 50% for dependents
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Annual discretionary bonus
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Flexible start and end times with some limited ability to work from home on slower days.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for the right candidate.
• ?The firm offers a clear path to senior roles and, ultimately, partnership as attorneys gain experience and develop their book of business.

Associate Attorney Requirements & Qualifications:

• Active license in good standing with the California or Washington State Bar.
• At least three to seven years of civil litigation experience.
• Willingness to meet the annual 1,800 hours billing requirement.
• Ability to independently manage pleadings, motion practice, discovery, and overall litigation strategy.
• Strong written and verbal advocacy skills.
• Willingness to learn, receive training, and also contribute to the development of junior colleagues is essential.
• Because the firm operates a 24/7 Global “Go Team,” candidates must be willing and able to travel as needed to respond to maritime casualty events. Domestic and international travel may occur on short notice.
• Comfort working at, on, or around water, vessels, ports, cranes, industrial sites, heights, fire scenes, and accident locations is required.
• Ability to remains composed and objective in challenging or graphic field environments.
• Willingness to travel at least once a month and do hands-on investigative work.
• Ability to thrive in settings that extend beyond the traditional office.
• Team-oriented mindset and eagerness to learn from senior attorneys.
• Interest in long-term growth.
• Candidates must be able to obtain a TWIC card, which involves a federal background check and may take up to 60 days to process.
• Professionalism, humility, and a commitment to the firm's collaborative, high-trust culture are crucial.

Associate Attorney Preferred (not required) Background & Skills:

• The firm values experience in maritime, admiralty, or environmental law; personal injury defense; ESI discovery; and taking or defending depositions.
• Additional bar licenses—particularly Oregon or New York—are also beneficial.