Job Description

Upwork is seeking an Employment Counsel to serve as the primary legal partner for their global People organization, advising on employment law, worker classification, and contingent labor practices. The role involves shaping scalable policies and programs to support a hybrid workforce and ensure compliance across multiple jurisdictions.

Responsibilities

• Advise HR teams on employment law and worker classification
• Design and implement scalable policies for workforce classification
• Advise on worker classification and joint-employer risks
• Support compliant processes for onboarding, background checks, and benefits
• Govern contingent workforce programs
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments
• Lead internal investigations and dispute resolution
• Create business-friendly legal guidance

Requirements

• JD and bar membership in a U.S. jurisdiction
• 6+ years of labor and employment counseling experience
• Significant contingent workforce experience
• Deep knowledge of employment laws (Title VII, ADA, FMLA, etc.)
• Experience drafting staffing/vendor agreements
• Strong writing and communication skills
• Collaborative and solutions-focused

Benefits

• No benefits