Principal Employment Law Attorney - General Counsel

About the Role

Hoag is seeking a dynamic and strategic Employment Attorney to join our growing Legal team. As Hoag continues to expand, this role plays a critical part in minimizing legal risk while supporting a positive, compliant, and inclusive workplace culture.

You will act as a trusted advisor to Human Resources and Leadership, providing expert legal counsel on a wide range of employment-related matters. Your work will influence organizational policies and practices that protect Hoag and its people while enabling innovation and growth across the health system.

• Provide legal advice and counsel on all aspects of employment law, including hiring, termination, disciplinary action, workplace accommodations, wage and hour compliance, discrimination, harassment, and labor relations.
• Draft, review, and negotiate employment-related agreements including employment contracts, physician agreements, retention agreements, and arbitration agreements.
• Ensure employment documents and policies remain compliant with current laws and reflect organizational strategy and risk posture.
• Conduct internal investigations and provide strategic guidance on employment claims and sensitive personnel issues.
• Analyze and interpret federal, state, and local employment laws, and translate them into practical, proactive legal advice.
• Partner closely with HR, hospital administration, and physician leadership to align legal strategies with operational goals.
• Assist in developing, updating, and implementing workplace policies, procedures, handbooks, and training materials.
• Coordinate with outside counsel on employment litigation, administrative proceedings, and specialized legal matters.
• Support organizational compliance initiatives and risk mitigation strategies.
• Perform other legal duties as assigned in a dynamic, fast-paced healthcare environment.

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school recognized by the American Bar Association.
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
• 4+ years of relevant employment law experience, preferably with a mix of law firm and in-house counsel roles.
• Strong knowledge of California employment laws and regulations.
• Proven expertise drafting and negotiating employment contracts, arbitration agreements, physician contracts, and retention agreements.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with sound judgment and a collaborative mindset.
• Experience conducting internal investigations and advising on high-risk personnel issues.