Counsel (Hybrid)

As a Counsel at Protective, your primary responsibilities include providing comprehensive legal support to the Human Resources Department. This involves advising on employee relations issues, ensuring compliance with various employment laws, and assisting with litigation matters. You'll also review HR policies, track changes in employment legislation, and conduct training for HR personnel, all crucial for maintaining adherence to laws like the FMLA, Title VII, and ADA.

To qualify for the Counsel position at Protective, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. Being currently admitted to a state bar and having at least 3-5 years of relevant experience advising clients on employment laws is essential. Preference is given to candidates with law firm experience. Strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities are also key attributes for success in this role.

Essential skills for a Counsel at Protective include excellent written and verbal communication, strong analytical capabilities, and effective problem-solving skills. A self-starter mentality, ability to multitask, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively are equally important. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel, is also necessary.

Protective values the continuous growth of their employees, including Counsel. The company supports professional development by offering training opportunities focused on employment law updates and compliance issues. Additionally, Counsel are encouraged to participate in relevant workshops and seminars to enhance their skills and stay abreast of changes in legislation and best practices in human resources.

The compensation range for the Counsel position at Protective is between $120,000 and $140,000. This range is influenced by various factors, including skills, experience, and job location. In addition to a competitive salary, Protective offers additional incentive opportunities through performance-based incentives, making it an attractive employment package.

In responding to this question, consider highlighting specific cases where you've applied your understanding of employment law. Discuss how you tackled compliance challenges or assisted HR in resolving employee relations issues. Mention relevant laws like FMLA or ADA that you're familiar with, emphasizing your proactive approach in staying updated with changes in employment legislation.

To answer effectively, outline your methods for tracking compliance, such as periodically reviewing policies and implementing training programs. Discuss the importance of staying current with changes in federal, state, and local laws, and provide examples of how you've successfully managed compliance in past roles.

Discuss your approach to addressing employee relations matters, emphasizing effective communication, mediation skills, and a deep understanding of relevant employment laws. Provide an example where you've successfully resolved a conflict or navigated a legal issue, showcasing your ability to foster a positive workplace environment.

In your response, outline the steps you take when dealing with litigation issues, such as investigations, gathering evidence, and liaising with outside counsel. Illustrate your understanding of the litigation process and stress the importance of thorough documentation and timely responses.

When answering, detail the steps involved in creating staffing agency agreements, highlighting your attention to legal compliance and risk management. Share your past experiences to underscore your familiarity with contractual obligations and negotiation tactics.

Emphasize your experience in developing training materials or leading sessions for employees. Discuss the topics covered, how you engaged participants, and the overall impact of your training on compliance awareness in the organization.

Addressing this question requires you to demonstrate your knowledge of current trends and challenges in employment law. Discuss issues like remote work compliance, evolving leave laws, or anti-discrimination efforts, and articulate how a Counsel can address these challenges proactively.

Here, you can showcase your organizational skills by explaining your approach to assessing the urgency and significance of each issue. Mention how you balance risk management with employee needs, ensuring that you provide legal guidance in a timely manner.

Share your methods for remaining informed about the latest developments in employment law. Discuss resources such as legal journals, seminars, webinars, online courses, or professional networks that you engage with to enhance your knowledge.

Convey your enthusiasm for the role by discussing your alignment with Protective’s values and mission. Mention any particular aspects of the company or its culture that appeal to you, as well as how your experience makes you a strong fit for their needs.