Jobs in River Forest Illinois

NEW: Compensation & Benefits Attorney | Chicago | Hybrid | $225k–$270k + Exceptional Hours-Based Bonus

We’re representing a top-tier Chicago firm (Vault-recognised in its category) hiring a junior Compensation & Benefits attorney to join a busy, sophisticated practice handling ERISA + retirement plan work at a BigLaw level — but in a leaner, more partner-accessible environment.

Highlights:

• BigLaw-level work, smaller-firm access - Direct partner exposure, early ownership, and client contact without the mega-firm layers.

• Serious bonus upside (hours-based, not class-year based) - A clearly structured bonus model that rewards performance transparently.

• Strong mentorship + supportive culture - Assigned mentors + optional cross-practice pairings; genuine investment in development.

The Role

• You’ll focus on Compensation & Benefits / ERISA matters including:
• ERISA and retirement plan work (plan design, compliance, advisory)
• Drafting/reviewing plan documents and related materials
• Supporting sophisticated transactional work tied to benefits issues (as applicable)
• Working with partners directly and taking on substantive responsibility early

Compensation & Bonus

• Base salary: $225,000 – $270,000 (DOE)
• Bonus (hours-based): Eligibility starts at 1,850 hours
• Typical range: $20k–$60k at 2,000–2,200 hours
• Upside: up to $120k at 2,500 hours

Billables: target around 1,800 (1,850+ for bonus eligibility)

Must-Haves:

• 2–4 years PQE in Compensation & Benefits / ERISA (not general employment)
• Illinois Bar (or eligibility)
• Top law school (T20 preferred)
• GPA 3.5+

Chicago (Loop)

Hybrid: in-office Tue/Wed/Thu

Apply Confidentially

Email your resume (and if available, a brief deal sheet):

Or DM me for a confidential discussion.

Lateral Corporate Partner / Group

M&A • Private Equity • Capital Markets • Securities • Finance • Funds

Fast-Growing AmLaw Firm | Nationwide Platform

We are representing a rapidly expanding AmLaw firm actively building a premier national corporate platform. The firm is investing heavily in lateral partner and group growth across M&A, private equity, capital markets, securities, finance, and investment funds and offers a highly supportive, entrepreneurial environment designed to scale portable books of business.

This is a growth-driven platform built for partners who want stronger economics, better cross-selling, and a firm that actively invests in their success.

Why This Firm

This firm combines AmLaw-level sophistication with a modern, expansion-focused operating model, including:

• Aggressive strategic investment in corporate, finance, and PE practices
• National footprint across major U.S. markets with flexible office alignment
• Robust business development & marketing support
• Deep cross-selling across litigation, regulatory, tax, and finance
• Track record of successful lateral partner integration
• Collaborative, non-bureaucratic culture built for revenue growth

The Opportunity

The firm is seeking partners — and partner groups — in areas including:

• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Private Equity & Sponsor-Side Transactions
• Capital Markets & Securities
• Corporate Finance & Lending
• Structured Finance & Securitization
• Fund Formation (PE, Credit, Hedge, VC, Real Estate)
• Joint Ventures, Recapitalizations & Strategic Investments

Partners will have access to a national client base, institutional referral flow, and integrated deal teams designed to expand wallet share and accelerate growth.

Who They’re Looking For

• Established partners or groups with a portable book of business
• Practices in corporate, PE, securities, finance, or funds
• Interest in a platform that invests in partner success, not just overhead

Portable business expectations typically start around $700K+, with flexibility based on practice, synergies, and growth potential.

Confidential Inquiries Welcome

All conversations are handled in strict confidence.

If you are exploring a platform that offers better economics, real firm support, and national growth opportunity, we would welcome a discreet discussion.

URGENTLY HIRING - Senior Commercial Real Estate Attorney (Transactional)/ Junior Partner | Premier Chicago Boutique | Hybrid | Up to $375,000 + Bonus

We're representing a highly regarded Chicago boutique law firm with over 40 years of excellence, known for its top-tier real estate group (nationally ranked by Chambers USA) handling sophisticated transactions for iconic clients like developers, investors, REITs, and luxury brands.

This senior role offers a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment with direct partner access, substantial responsibility, and early leadership on complex deals—providing a compelling alternative to Big Law's bureaucracy while maintaining high-calibre work and strong work-life balance.

Highlights:

• Nationally Ranked Real Estate Practice — Consistently top-tier by Chambers USA; one of the most experienced teams in the country for complex commercial transactions
• Boutique Advantages — Work directly with partners on leading roles earlier than in larger firms; greater client contact and autonomy from day one
• Collegial & Entrepreneurial Culture — Strong emphasis on mentorship, hands-on training, and innovation; minimal bureaucracy with a business-oriented approach to efficient solutions
• Diversity & Inclusion Focus — Recognized as a 2025 LCLD Top Performer; committed to DEI with measurable leadership opportunities for women and minorities
• Prestigious Recognition — Ranked #1 Midsize Law Firm in Chicago by Vault (2022–2024); a platform for building lasting impact

The Role

• Lead sophisticated commercial real estate transactions: acquisitions/dispositions, development, financing, leasing, joint ventures, asset management
• Handle complex deals across asset classes (industrial, retail, multifamily, office) for high-profile clients
• Conduct due diligence, draft/negotiate agreements, advise on risks/strategies
• Mentor juniors and contribute to firm growth in a collaborative team

Compensation

• Competitive base salary $340,000 – $375,000 (DOE)
• Bonus potential + comprehensive benefits

Work-Life Balance — Hybrid schedule (in-office Tue–Thu, flexible around holidays/meetings); target 1,850 billables in a supportive setting

Must-Haves

• 7–9 years of commercial real estate transactional experience (large firm or strong boutique)
• JD from a T15 law school
• GPA 3.5+

This is an ideal role for a seasoned real estate attorney seeking meaningful leadership, sophisticated work, and a balanced, inclusive boutique culture with real partnership potential.

Apply Confidentially

Email resume:

Book a quick, no-obligation chat: inquiries strictly confidential.

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Schedule: Initially onsite with flexibility after onboarding

Salary: Around $105,000 – $115,000+ depending on experience

A well-established Midwest defense law firm is seeking a Workers’ Compensation Defense Associate to join its Chicago office.

This firm has a long-standing reputation representing employers and insurers in workers’ compensation matters and offers attorneys the opportunity to work on complex claims within a collaborative and supportive team environment.

The Role

You will focus on workers’ compensation defense matters, representing employers and insurers in a range of claims and litigation proceedings.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing workers’ compensation defense cases from start to finish

• Representing employers and insurers in hearings and litigation proceedings

• Drafting legal pleadings, motions, and settlement strategies

• Communicating with clients, adjusters, and opposing counsel

• Building strong case strategies while maintaining billable productivity

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Opportunity to join a well-established defense practice with decades of experience

• Exposure to high-quality workers’ compensation litigation

• Collaborative and supportive firm culture

• Potential hybrid flexibility after onboarding and strong performance

• Clear opportunity for long-term career growth

Requirements

• Workers’ compensation defense experience representing employers or insurers

• Licensed to practice law in Illinois (or ability to obtain promptly)

• Ability to work onsite in Chicago initially

• Strong litigation and case management skills

Preferred Experience

• 3+ years of dedicated workers’ compensation defense experience

• Strong track record of billable productivity

• Reputation or references within the workers’ compensation defense community

This is an excellent opportunity for a workers’ compensation defense attorney looking to join a stable and growing litigation team with strong long-term prospects.

If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, feel free to apply or reach out directly for a confidential conversation.

This role is for a mid-level corporate attorney who wants meaningful involvement in transactions, direct client exposure, and a firm environment where collaboration beats politics. The practice serves entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, and middle-market clients on complex and varied matters.

The position operates on a hybrid schedule with three days per week in the office.

The work includes

• Mergers and acquisitions
• General corporate transactions and governance
• Advising closely held and middle-market businesses
• Direct communication with owners, executives, and decision-makers
• Opportunity to contribute across related practice areas as deals require

Why this role stands out

• Firm in active growth mode with expanding opportunities
• Non-siloed environment where attorneys cross-market and collaborate
• Real client contact rather than purely internal support
• Culture built around trust, autonomy, and professionalism
• Strong mentoring from experienced partners
• Business development opportunities for interested attorneys

Compensation and structure

• Salary range of $150,000–$200,000 depending on experience
• Benefits included
• Hybrid flexibility while maintaining strong team integration
• Long-term advancement potential for stable contributors

Ideal background

• 5–7 years of relevant corporate experience
• Solid M&A exposure
• Stable work history with no excessive moves
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team
• Illinois Bar admission

This opportunity is well-suited for attorneys who want serious transactional work, consistent client interaction, and a supportive team environment within a growing Chicago platform.

If this is worth a confidential conversation, feel free to message me directly or apply here.

Trademark, Copyright & Branding Attorney (2nd to 5th year Associate)

Multiple Offices: Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis, New York, or Washington, DC.

Summary Description

A national law firm is seeking a mid-level Associate to join its Trademark, Copyright & Branding team.

The ideal candidate will have 2–5 years of experience advising clients on U.S. trademark clearance, prosecution, portfolio management, copyright counseling, and trademark-related disputes, with exposure to both domestic and international matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct U.S. trademark clearance searches and provide risk assessments
• Manage trademark prosecution and portfolio strategy
• Handle matters before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB)
• Advise clients on copyright issues and brand protection strategies
• Support trademark-related litigation and enforcement actions
• Draft and negotiate licensing, acquisition, and IP-related agreements
• Assist with international trademark prosecution and coordination
• Collaborate across offices on complex, multi-jurisdictional matters
• Contribute to the growth of a national IP practice

Qualifications

• JD required
• Active bar admission in at least one jurisdiction where the candidate intends to practice

2–5 years of relevant experience in:

• Trademark clearance, prosecution, and portfolio management
• TTAB proceedings
• Copyright counseling
• Trademark litigation (preferred)
• Experience with international prosecution and IP transactions is a plus
• Strong writing, research, and communication skills
• Prior law firm experience required
• Strong academic credentials required

Additional Information

• Candidates should demonstrate initiative, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex IP matters efficiently
• Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work across a national platform

Job ID: 398657

Practice area:- Corporate - M&A

Corporate M&A Associate Attorney (1–3 Years) – Financial Institutions Group | Chicago, IL

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Keywords:- Corporate M&A Associate Attorney, Corporate Attorney, Mergers and Acquisitions Attorney, Financial Institutions Attorney, Banking M&A Attorney, Chicago legal jobs, Attorney jobs Chicago, Illinois Bar required, Law firm corporate associate, Partner-track position, lawyer,corporate governance,entity formation,shareholder agreements,corporate resolutions,board counsel,SEC filings,corporate compliance,business formation,

A prestigious law firm is seeking a Corporate M&A Associate Attorney in Chicago, IL to advise financial institutions, private equity funds, and multinational clients on sophisticated transactions and regulatory matters. This is a standout opportunity for candidates pursuing Chicago legal jobs with strong mentorship and early client contact.

Here is a premier mid-sized law firm, with sophisticated practice in corporate, labor and employment, and litigation. It has one of the most successful and prestigious intellectual property (including patent prosecution and litigation), M&A, finance/commercial lending and investment services (mutual fund, etc.) practices in the nation. With a couple of offices in the East Coast, and a main office in Chicago, this firm is a powerhouse when it comes to technological and financial and finance matters. Its clients range from Fortune 500 corporations, other private and public companies, startups, banks and other financial institutions, securities brokers and dealers, mutual funds, investment advisers, insurance companies, multi-employer benefit plans, manufacturers, universities, school districts, municipalities, utilities, health care institutions, trade and professional associations, not-for-profit organizations, and individuals. Client contact is early, and you are expected to produce and work hard from the first day. Everyone takes their jobs very seriously, but mentorship and guidance is available for those who seek it. The pay is competitive with the largest law firms in Chicago, and the firm provides merit-based bonuses to avoid strict lock-step compensation. Top grades from top law schools are required. For someone who wants to be a part of an innovative, yet prestigious law firm that has superb reputation and sophisticated practice that rivals the large firms in town, this is your place.

________________________________________

A highly regarded law firm is seeking a mid-level Corporate M&A Associate Attorney to join its Financial Institutions Group in Chicago, IL. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with 1–3 years of experience in corporate and M&A matters who is eager to work with sophisticated financial institution clients on high-level transactional and regulatory matters.

This role offers the chance to advise global and national financial institutions, private equity funds, venture capital funds, and multinational organizations in a dynamic and demanding practice. For candidates exploring Chicago legal jobs, this opening combines strong training, early responsibility, and a clear partner-track position within a respected and innovative firm platform.

Because the role includes direct work with premier clients and broad exposure to transactional and regulatory issues, it is especially attractive for attorneys who want to build a long-term career in corporate law. This opportunity is actively interviewing and rarely opens at this level.

________________________________________

Key Responsibilities

• Advise clients on corporate and M&A transactions involving financial institutions and related entities

• Assist with bank and financial services mergers, acquisitions, and strategic transactions

• Handle regulatory matters affecting banking and financial institution clients

• Support due diligence, transaction structuring, drafting, and negotiation processes

• Collaborate with shareholders and senior attorneys on business development activities

• Manage multiple legal matters simultaneously while maintaining high-quality work product

• Work directly with sophisticated clients on strategic business and transactional issues

• Contribute to a fast-paced practice serving private equity funds, venture capital funds, and multinational organizations

________________________________________

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in corporate and M&A law

• Experience in bank and financial services M&A and regulatory issues preferred

• Admission to the bar in Illinois or Texas, or in the process of admission

• J.D. degree with strong academic credentials

• Good standing with the ARDC of the Supreme Court of Illinois or relevant State Bar

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities

• Excellent client service and communication skills

• Ability to manage assignments efficiently and meet deadlines under pressure

• Strong drafting, analytical, and professional judgment skills

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Culture & Firm Appeal

This top-tier law firm is known for offering a sophisticated practice that rivals much larger firms while maintaining the advantages of a premier mid-sized platform. Attorneys benefit from early client contact, meaningful responsibility from day one, and exposure to complex matters involving leading corporate, financial, and institutional clients.

The firm has built an outstanding reputation across corporate, finance, litigation, and other major practice areas, with particular strength in transactional and financial matters. Associates are expected to perform at a high level, but mentorship and guidance are available to those who seek it, creating an environment where ambitious attorneys can develop quickly.

For candidates seeking Chicago legal jobs, this opportunity is especially compelling because it combines competitive compensation, merit-based bonuses, hands-on experience, and the prestige of working with a respected law firm serving Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, and sophisticated market participants.

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Why This Role Is Unique

This Corporate M&A Associate Attorney role offers far more than routine transactional support. The successful candidate will work on sophisticated financial institutions matters, regulatory questions, and strategic M&A transactions involving a high-profile client base.

The position is especially well suited for attorneys who want early responsibility, business-facing exposure, and the chance to build a strong corporate practice in a respected partner-track position. It is also a strong opportunity for candidates moving from regional or larger firm settings who want a blend of elite-level work and practical mentorship.

By year-end, the attorney in this role could be playing a meaningful role in major transactions, developing direct client relationships, and building highly marketable experience in financial institutions M&A and regulation.

________________________________________

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits structure

• Hybrid work policy with three days in-office attendance

• Professional development through training and mentoring

• Merit-based bonus opportunities

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Call to Action

Apply now for a confidential discussion with a BCG Attorney Search recruiter.

Submit your resume to learn more about this prestigious role.

Explore this exceptional Corporate M&A Associate Attorney opportunity in Chicago today.

________________________________________

BCG Attorney Search is the industry leader for placing candidates in permanent positions in law firms. Since 2000, our recruiters have placed several thousand attorneys and enjoyed extraordinarily high success rates with our candidates. As a BCG Attorney Search candidate, you have access to more opportunities than any legal placement firm in the United States. We are able to offer the most in-depth insight in the legal recruiting market thanks to our dedicated team of over 150 employees who mercilessly research, study and analyze the legal market. The depth and breadth of our research empowers us to place attorneys at rates that are unparalleled at any placement firm in the United States. Many of our recruiters make 30 to 40 placements per year, while recruiters at competitor firms are likely to make four or five. Unlike other placement firms that can only tell you about openings at major AmLaw firms, we place candidates of all backgrounds in firms of all sizes. While other legal recruiters only represent a narrow band of candidates from top law firms and top law schools, our research, firm contacts, and market insight allow us to place hundreds of candidates each year who do not fit this mold. It is rare that we do not get candidates we represent interviews and offers. No one in the world is better at legal recruiting and placement than BCG Attorney Search.

BCG Attorney Search will confidentially review your application and will not forward your materials to the firm without first discussing the opportunity with you.

Ocean Export Coordinator | Melrose Park, Illinois | Hybrid work schedule

This hybrid role offers the opportunity to work both remotely and in-office while managing export shipments across global trade lanes.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary up to $65,000 (based on experience)
• Hybrid schedule (combination of remote work and in-office presence in Melrose Park, IL)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with company match

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage ocean export shipments from booking through final delivery
• Prepare and review export documentation (Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, AES filings, etc.)
• Communicate with carriers, overseas agents, shippers, and internal teams to ensure timely and accurate shipment execution
• Arrange bookings with ocean carriers and negotiate rates when required
• Track shipments and provide status updates to customers and stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, customs requirements, and company policies
• Resolve shipment issues, delays, or discrepancies efficiently
• Maintain accurate records in internal systems and ensure data integrity
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within export operations

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in ocean export or freight forwarding
• Strong knowledge of international shipping documentation and Incoterms
• Familiarity with AES filings and U.S. export compliance requirements
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and customer service skills

Air Import Coordinator - Wood Dale, Illinois - Salary: Up to $70,000

The Air Import Coordinator will be responsible for managing international air import shipments from arrival through final delivery. This role ensures the timely and compliant movement of freight while delivering excellent customer service and maintaining strong communication with all stakeholders.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary up to $70,000 depending on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate full-cycle air import shipments from arrival through final delivery
• Arrange customs clearance in collaboration with customs brokers
• Prepare and review import documentation including: Air Waybill (MAWB/HAWB), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Arrival Notices, and Delivery Orders
• Ensure compliance with U.S. import regulations, Customs requirements, and international air transport regulations (IATA)
• Communicate with airlines, customs brokers, overseas agents, trucking companies, warehouses, and customers
• Coordinate cargo recovery and arrange inland transportation from airport to final destination
• Track shipments and provide proactive status updates to customers
• Handle billing, invoicing, and shipment costing
• Resolve shipment discrepancies, delays, and claims
• Maintain accurate records in the company’s freight management system

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in air import freight forwarding required
• Strong knowledge of international air import documentation and Incoterms
• Experience working with U.S. Customs clearance processes
• Familiarity with airline systems, AMS/ACI filings, and cargo tracking platforms
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Now Hiring: Corporate M&A Attorney – Chicago (Multiple Locations Considered)

Hydrogen Group is proud to partner with a top AmLaw firm in their search for an exceptional Corporate M&A Associate to join their team. This role is primarily based in Chicago, but the firm is also open to qualified candidates in: Houston, San Francisco, or New York City.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a candidate with a minimum of two (2) years of experience in Mergers & Acquisitions with a focus on company representation and strategic acquisitions

This is a fantastic chance to work within a premier national practice handling sophisticated, high‑value transactional matters.

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must:

• Be licensed to practice law in the state where they reside
• Have top academic credentials
• Come from a top‑tier law firm environment
• Demonstrate strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills

Why This Firm?

You’ll join a leading corporate practice known for its collaborative culture, high‑profile client work, and exceptional career development opportunities.

If qualified and interested, please submit your resume in word format.