Corporate Counsel

Description of position: Costco Wholesale is seeking an experienced litigation attorney to join the legal team at its corporate headquarters in Issaquah, WA. Costco is one of the world’s top retailers, with over 127 million cardholders and 870 warehouses in 14 countries, and continues to expand globally. This attorney will primarily focus on claims and litigation-related matters. Primary responsibilities include handling filed or threatened litigation, including class actions and regulatory matters; interfacing with suppliers and business clients; overseeing the process of responding to third-party subpoenas and supplier-related bankruptcy issues, as well as patent and intellectual property litigation. Knowledge of environmental regulations is also a plus. Additional responsibilities include working on processes and projects to mitigate risk and promote compliance. This individual will have at least seven years of experience as a civil litigator defending commercial liability claims and should have experience working with governmental regulatory agencies. The candidate must be adept at identifying legal risks and developing a mitigation strategy by understanding legal issues and translating them into easily understood and practical legal advice and counsel to the applicable business group. Individuals who thrive at Costco are able to drive results through collaboration, critical thinking, willingness to grow in their career, and strong communication skills. This position is an “in the office” (not remote work) position.

Responsibilities:

●          Analyze potential claims and develop strategies to eliminate or minimize liability.

●          Serve as the primary point of contact on lawsuits and other claims, manage outside counsel, and collaborate with business. 

●          Review and comment on legal briefs and motions prepared by outside counsel.

●          Assist outside counsel with discovery responses and preparation of witnesses.

●          Work on mediation statements, attend mediations and hearings, and review settlement agreements.

●          Prepare and deliver training and presentations to employees, management, executives.

●          Suggest process improvements and implement communication plans to team and internal stakeholders.

●          Address compliance and regulatory issues.

●          Assist with the development and implementation of the Legal strategy, vision, and goals as they align with and support compliance initiatives.

●          Oversee subpoena responses in collaboration with a legal assistant and outside counsel.

●          Perform special projects and other functions as directed.

●          Monitor, manage, and review work and expenditures by outside counsel to ensure quality, value, and efficacy of legal services.

Qualifications:

●          Bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school required.

●          Admission in good standing to practice law in at least one U.S. state, and eligible to practice as in-house counsel in the State of Washington.

●          Minimum of seven years of experience as a civil litigator required; experience in retail environment and consumer class actions preferred. 

●          Demonstrated experience in building and leading an inclusive culture.

●          Highly developed writing, editing, and written communication skills.

●          Excellent analytical abilities and attention to detail, ability to analyze complex litigation and strategies.

●          Ability to operate successfully in a culture that values consultation and collaboration.

●          Strong verbal communication skills. 

●          Ability to travel as needed.

●          This is an in office/not remote work position.

Salary and Benefits:

The annual base salary range for this position is $150,000 to $180,000, depending upon years of legal experience. In addition to annual base salary, the total compensation package includes an annual grant of restricted stock units ("RSUs") and an annual bonus (based on company and individual performance). The combined value of the bonus and the RSUs is expected to exceed the base salary if the RSUs vest at a share price at or above the grant price. Attorneys are also eligible to participate in the executive deferred compensation plan with a matching contribution from Costco, and receive other executive benefits. We also offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, health benefits (medical, dental, vision, hearing aid, pharmacy, behavioral health, employee assistance), health care reimbursement account, dependent care assistance plan, commuter benefits, short-term and long-term disability insurance, AD&D insurance, life insurance, and 401(k).

At Costco we are committed to doing the right thing. That means fostering a culture of inclusiveness, collaboration and ethical decision making. At Costco, you will have the opportunity to work on complex legal issues while growing as a leader. You will also build a long-lasting career in a renowned culture where the company is committed to taking care of its employees, members and suppliers. You will be empowered to independently drive results within your areas of responsibility, and you will feel good about what you are helping to build. To apply, please send a cover letter and resume.

Costco Wholesale is an equal-opportunity employer and strives to provide a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We are also committed to recruiting, hiring, training and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds and make all employment decisions without regard to any protected status.