5+ PQE Employment Lawyer | Associate/Senior Associate

Posted 23 May 2025
Salary$130,000 - $180,000 + Kiwi Saver
LocationAuckland
Job type Permanent
DisciplineLaw Firms - Professional
Reference644802

Job description


A national law firm is looking for a lawyer with 5+ years’ employment law experience to join its employment team in Auckland. The team is recognised for its depth of experience, collaborative culture, and high-quality work.

The work
This is a senior opportunity within a high-performing team that advises a wide range of employers, including large corporates, government agencies, and multinationals, on all aspects of employment law.

You will be working on a mix of litigation, advisory, and transactional support. The role offers exposure to major employers across the public and private sectors, both in Aotearoa and internationally. You’ll advise on restructures, investigations, grievances, employment agreements, health and safety, privacy, union matters, and collective bargaining. You’ll also act in mediations and regularly appear in the Employment Relations Authority and Court.

The size of the team allows lawyers to specialise or broaden their experience, depending on their interests. The work is often complex, high-profile profile and nationally significant.

The team
The employment practice is one of the largest in the country, with a mix of partners, senior lawyers and juniors working together across three offices. The culture is supportive, respectful, and team-focused. Senior lawyers and partners are hands-on in mentoring, and there’s a strong focus on professional development, training, and flexibility.

You
You’ll have solid employment law experience, or be a litigator interested in specialising in this space. You’ll be confident advising clients, keen to keep developing, and enjoy working closely with colleagues at all levels. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with good judgment and the ability to build relationships.

Why apply
  • Flexible working options (hybrid, flexi-hours, and leave)
  • Structured learning and development
  • A diverse, inclusive workplace where people are respected and supported
  • Competitive salary 
  • Career growth with clear promotion pathways
  • A strong focus on wellbeing, including mental health support, wellness payments, generous leave policies, and TOIL for legal staff
  • Industry-leading parental leave and family support
  • Social connection through firm-wide and local events
  • A supportive and down-to-earth team that backs your success
If you're looking for high-quality work in a team that values its people and prioritises long-term careers, this role offers a rare opportunity.

For a confidential discussion about the role, call Jenny Gallagher on 027 874 0993 or email a copy of your CV and academics to jenny@colegal.co.nz or by clicking ‘APPLY’ now.