IAMAW
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
 

Associate General Counsel

Based in Upper Marlboro, MD

 

The IAM Union is a large and diverse international union representing workers across aerospace, air transport, rail, manufacturing, public sector, health care, and more. The IAM is committed to advancing workers’ rights through strong contracts, effective advocacy, and solidarity. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our union and strive to build a workforce that reflects our membership.

Position Summary
The IAM General Counsel’s office seeks an attorney with 5+ years’ experience representing workers and/or labor unions. We’re a small, collegial team where each lawyer has meaningful autonomy, works across fast-moving matters under tight deadlines, and partners closely with union leaders and members. The practice spans a variety of labor laws including the NLRA, FLRA, RLA and state and local labor laws. Work includes advising union leaders and representatives on collective bargaining, grievances, contract administration, EEO laws, and ULPs; providing legal assistance on organizing campaigns; and supervising litigation.

Schedule: Full-time
Reports to: General Counsel
Location: Upper Marlboro, MD (near Washington, D.C.) with occasional remote work options
Compensation: Competitive salary (range $130,500 – $149,600) commensurate with experience
Benefits:

• Generous medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% employer covered premiums.
• Defined-benefit pension.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Additional employer-provided benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day legal counsel on collective bargaining, grievances, contract administration, EEO laws, and unfair labor practices.
• Conduct legal research; draft briefs, position statements, and other filings; and review/advise on legal documents.
• Support organizing campaigns and membership mobilization; advise on strategy and compliance.
• Represent the union in administrative proceedings as needed.
• Supervise and coordinate litigation with outside counsel.
• Conduct training sessions for union members and staff on legal rights and labor issues.
• Collaborate effectively with union leaders, staff, and members; manage multiple matters simultaneously with professionalism and discretion.

Qualifications

• J.D. required and admission to a state bar (in good standing).
• 5+ years’ experience representing workers/unions or practicing labor/employment law.
• Excellent legal writing, research, and advocacy skills; strong judgment and client-service orientation.
• Strong people skills and the ability to work directly with individual members and union leaders.
• Prior litigation experience (in court or before the NLRB/other agencies) is a plus.
• Passion for the labor movement and commitment to social justice.
• Language ability: Particular consideration given to candidates fluent in languages other than English (Spanish preferred).
• Willingness to travel as needed and occasionally work irregular hours to meet mission needs.

How to Apply
Please submit the following by November 21, 2025:

• Cover letter 
• Résumé.
• Writing sample (approximately 10 pages).
• References upon request.

Send materials to:

Carla M. Siegel, General Counsel
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
9000 Machinists Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Email: csiegel@iamaw.org
Subject line: Associate General Counsel - [Your Name]

Equal Opportunity Statement
The IAM is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from attorneys of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others who will contribute to the diversity of our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification protected by applicable law.