Director, Litigation

Core responsibilities:

• Lead and execute the Legal Department's litigation work, including developing and implementing strategic litigation strategies to protect the rights of low-income immigrant communities.
• Oversee impact litigation and legal advocacy, including preparing pleadings, motions, briefs, conducting discovery, presenting oral arguments, and handling trials and appeals.
• Collaborate with Policy, Strategy and Partnerships, Strategic Communications, and Development teams to integrate litigation with other core strategies like policy advocacy and narrative change.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Staff Attorneys, Senior Staff Attorneys, and Legal Fellows, ensuring professional growth and effective case management.

This role creates positive change by leading litigation efforts to defend and advance the rights of low-income immigrants in the U.S., integrating legal advocacy with policy and community strategies to achieve racial, economic, and social justice.

Required qualifications:

• Juris Doctor from an accredited school and active member in good standing with a State Bar.
• At least 10 years of combined experience in litigation at a nonprofit, social justice organization, or law firm, including substantial federal court and appellate practice.
• 4+ years of leadership/management experience with legal supervision, case development, and project management.
• Demonstrated experience in immigration, education, healthcare, labor/employment, and/or civil rights law with innovative strategies.

Compensation and benefits:

• Salary range: $132,664 - $175,000 annually.
• Employer-paid healthcare coverage (100% for employees, 75% for dependents), employer-supported dental and vision coverage.
• 403(b)-retirement plan with automatic contribution from NILC, paid parental leave, monthly cell phone and wellness stipends.
• Pre-tax accounts for transit, health, and childcare benefits (FSA), employer-paid short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
• Generous paid-time-off policy: 15 holidays and 22 days of paid time off annually (increased to 32 after 2 years of employment).
• Qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.

The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) is a leading advocacy organization in the U.S. dedicated to defending and advancing the rights and opportunities of low-income immigrants and their loved ones, grounded in racial, economic, and gender justice.