Employment Associate / Senior Associate

A leading Auckland legal practice is seeking an Employment Law Associate or Senior Associate with 5+ years’ PQE. This role offers complex employment matters, for large multinational clients. The firm provides flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth.

A leading legal practice in Auckland is seeking an experienced Employment Law Associate or Senior Associate to join their highly regarded team. This is a rare opportunity to work with a diverse portfolio of large, multinational clients on complex employment matters, including cross-border cases that will expand your professional horizons. The firm is known for its supportive and knowledgeable environment, offering flexible working arrangements and the chance to collaborate with some of the most respected professionals in the field. With a focus on both New Zealand and international employment law, you will be empowered to make a real impact while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.

What you'll do:

As an Employment Law Associate or Senior Associate based in Auckland, you will play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional legal services to prominent corporate clients. Your day-to-day activities will involve advising on intricate employment law issues, managing cross-border cases that demand both technical expertise and cultural awareness, and taking ownership of client relationships from initial consultation through to resolution. You will be trusted to act independently—meeting clients face-to-face or virtually—and expected to provide thoughtful mentorship to junior team members. Your input will be crucial in shaping strategies for complex matters while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. The position offers flexibility around working patterns; whether you prefer full-time hours or a four-day week arrangement (with corresponding office presence), your contribution will be integral to the continued success of this well-respected team.

What you bring:

• A minimum of five years’ PQE practising New Zealand employment law within a top-tier or boutique/specialist firm environment.
• Current New Zealand Practising Certificate is essential.
• Proven ability to manage all aspects of employment law cases independently from inception through completion.
• Specialist experience advising on Health and Safety issues within the workplace context is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated capability in handling cross-border cases involving international clients and multiple jurisdictions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills enabling you to build rapport with clients at all levels and communicate complex information clearly.
• Experience mentoring or supervising junior lawyers within a collaborative team setting.
• Strong organisational abilities allowing you to prioritise competing demands while maintaining attention to detail.
• Willingness to participate in occasional international meetings outside standard business hours as required by client needs.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and contributing positively to an inclusive team culture.

What sets this company apart:

This firm stands out as one of Auckland’s premier legal employers due to its unwavering commitment to professional excellence combined with a genuinely supportive culture. The employment law team enjoys access to high-calibre work from multinational clients while benefiting from an environment that values collaboration over competition. Flexible working arrangements are available—including options for reduced hours or hybrid office/home schedules—ensuring that personal wellbeing is never compromised for professional achievement. Ongoing training opportunities are provided so that every member can continue developing their expertise alongside knowledgeable colleagues who share insights freely. The leadership places great emphasis on nurturing talent at all levels; whether you are returning from overseas or seeking new challenges locally, you will find encouragement here for both personal growth and community involvement. Diversity of thought is celebrated throughout the organisation, making it an inclusive place where everyone’s contributions matter.

What's next:

If you are ready to take your career in employment law further within a welcoming team that values your expertise and supports your ambitions, this could be the perfect next step for you.

If you wish to apply or have any further questions, please reach out to Kristen Dewar at kristen.dewar@robertwalters.co.nz or 09 374 7335.

Apply today by clicking on the link – don’t miss out on this outstanding opportunity!

Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Kristen Dewar at kristen.dewar@robertwalters.co.nz on +64 9 374 7335.