Associate attorney jobs in New York, NY - 2,264 jobs

EMERGING COMPANIES & VENTURE CAPITAL ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY Multiple Locations: New York, NY | San Francisco, CA A leading AmLaw 50 firm is seeking a driven Associate Attorney to join its premier Emerging Companies & Venture Capital (ECVC) Practice. This is a high-impact opportunity to counsel cutting-edge technology and life sciences companies, as well as the investors who support them, on complex transactions across the full company lifecycle-from formation through exit. Candidate Profile JD from a top-tier law school with an excellent academic record. Active Bar Admission in the relevant jurisdiction, in good standing. 6-8 years of substantive ECVC experience, including company-side and/or investor-side representation. Demonstrated experience handling early- and late-stage financings (SAFEs, preferred stock financings), corporate governance matters, and general corporate work for high-growth businesses. Strong background advising founders, management teams, boards of directors, and venture capital or institutional investors. Familiarity with industries such as AI and machine learning, digital health, defense tech, life sciences, fintech, and other disruptive technologies is highly valued. Exceptional communication, drafting, and negotiation skills. Ability to manage complex deal processes, lead transactions, and foster long-term client relationships in a fast-paced environment. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage venture financings and general corporate transactions for emerging companies and investors. Advise high-growth clients on a wide range of corporate matters, including formation, governance, strategic investments, and exits. Represent venture capital firms and institutional investors on investment strategies and deal negotiations. Collaborate with management teams, founders, and boards on business-critical issues across the company lifecycle. Provide pragmatic legal counsel to clients across diverse industries and rapidly evolving markets. Work as part of an integrated ECVC “SWAT team” handling sophisticated matters at the forefront of the innovation economy. Why Join Us? This is an exceptional opportunity to join one of the nation's most respected ECVC practices, working with the current and future leaders of the private technology and life sciences ecosystem. Attorneys in this group gain direct exposure to both company-side and investor-side clients, building deep relationships with founders, boards, and venture capitalists. The practice offers high levels of autonomy, client engagement, and mentorship, making it an ideal environment for entrepreneurial associates looking to make a lasting impact in the emerging companies and venture capital space. Compensation & Benefits Competitive Salary: $390,000 - $435,000, commensurate with experience. Discretionary merit bonus eligibility. Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; paid parental leave; 401(k) plan; HSA with firm contribution; FSAs; back-up child care; and commuter benefits. Additional Perks: Include family-building benefits (IVF, adoption, surrogacy, and egg freezing), wellness reimbursements, behavioral health support, and pet insurance, among others. Application Requirements Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and deal sheet/list of representative transactions for consideration. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer . #LI-DNP

Marshall Dennehey, a leading Am Law 200 civil defense law firm with over sixty years of continued service to our corporate, insurance, and individual clients, is seeking an Associate Attorney for its New York, NY office with at least five (5) years of experience handling premises, auto, labor law 240 and other general liability matters. Trial experience preferred. Compensation range: $140,000 - $200,000 which is negotiable dependent upon experience level and portable business. The posted salary range for this position is based on several legitimate, non-discriminatory factors set by the Firm. Marshall Dennehey is committed to ensuring equal pay opportunities for equal work regardless of gender, race, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local pay equity laws. Your strong analytical, writing, research and communication skills are valued at this firm. The firm welcomes candidates who thrive in our diverse, inclusive, collaborative, open-door environment where they appreciate direct access and continued support from our experienced shareholders and dynamic associates. We are extremely proud of our Casualty practice group, and our attorneys' abilities to not only try cases, but leverage their experience and reputation to achieve excellent results and reach creative resolutions for our clients and insurers. Marshall Dennehey seeks to hire attorneys who want to find their “forever home.” We welcome candidates who desire to advance within the firm while assisting others to do the same. To that end, we prefer a steady and consistent work history. In return, the firm offers a competitive salary including multiple financial bonus opportunities throughout the year, a comprehensive employee benefits package, a firm funded Lifestyle Account entitled “Marshall Associate Advantage”, and a sound future. Marshall Dennehey supports and encourages workplace diversity and we are an Equal Opportunity Employer AA/M/F/D/V. The firm's investment in this arena has been observed by numerous publications and we were honored with a 2022 “Tipping the Scales” recognition by the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. Qualified applicants may submit their cover letter and resume for consideration. Marshall Dennehey does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to job postings.

Silicon Valley, CA; San Francisco, CA; Santa Monica, CA; Seattle, WA; New York, NY; Washington, DC Our client is seeking junior and mid-level associates for our high tech and life sciences patent litigation practices for our New York, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Washington, DC offices. Qualifications The ideal candidates will have between one to six years of patent litigation experience. Superior academic credentials, excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills are a must. While degrees or industry experience in high tech or life sciences fields are preferred, they are not required and we encourage applications from associates who have studied or worked in a variety of fields and industries. Compensation The anticipated range for this position is: $225,000.00-$370,000.00, plus bonus Depending on the role, the actual base salary offered may depend upon a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. A discretionary bonus for eligible employees may also be available based on performance. Additional information about employee eligibility for benefits and discretionary bonus will be made available upon request. Salary: $225,000.00-$370,000.00, plus bonus Date Active: 10.7.2024 Exempt/Not Exempt: Exempt #J-18808-Ljbffr

AmLaw 50 Firm with Cravath level compensation. A top firm for Emerging Companies and Venture Capital. Highly Ranked in Surveys of "Best Corporate Cultures". Excellent programs for the integration of lateral hires. Biotechnology Firm of the Year. REQUIREMENTS Candidates must have specific experience with patent and trade secrets disputes. Experience with inter partes review petitions is highly desirable. A degree in an Engineering discipline, Physics or Computer Science is strongly preferred. Candidates should have outstanding academic credentials, comparable law firm experience, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. Relevant bar admission (or eligibility to obtain admission promptly) required. Admission to practice before the USPTO preferred. SUMMARY Vanguard Intellectual Partners (Vanguard-IP) specializes in the placement of IP/Patent professionals nationwide. Our concentrated focus in these areas enables us to more deeply understand our clients' technical needs, and our candidates' individual talents and career interests. Our broad network of long-term client relationships gives us a competitive edge. Our recruiters all have 10+ years of IP recruiting experience, and an exceptional record of success. We have superior knowledge of the IP job market, and offer trusted career advice for our candidates. We also have the resources and high-level contacts to get your resume noticed by the people who matter. We look forward to speaking with you, and learning more about what you are seeking in your next opportunity. CONFIDENTIALITY At Vanguard-IP, we respect the confidentiality of every candidate who contacts us. Furthermore, we will always obtain expressed authorization before submitting your resume to any of our clients. **Should you have an interest in exploring opportunities in another location, we have hundreds of openings in other markets. Please apply now and our team would be happy to review your information for this or other openings in your location of interest.

Family Law Attorney Join Offit Kurman's Growing Team! Offit Kurman, a dynamic full-service law firm, is seeking an experienced Family Law Attorney to join our New York office. We are looking for a skilled professional with 3-10 years of family law experience who can manage client matters independently while contributing to a collaborative team. Responsibilities: Handling divorces, child custody matters, child and spousal support issues, and equitable distribution for middle-income and high-net-worth clients. The role requires strong drafting skills for pleadings, settlement agreements, memoranda, and court submissions, along with effective client counseling and courtroom presence when needed. Qualifications: Admission to New York is required. New Jersey Bar is preferred. Candidates should have a proven background in family law (divorce, custody, support, equitable distribution) and exceptional writing and communication skills,

Hiring General Liability Litigation Associate - Build Your Future, Not Just Your Caseload Are you a litigation associate with 2-10 years of experience, wondering what's next-but not quite ready to start looking? Or are you actively looking to make a change? This opportunity might find you first. Join a nationally recognized, top AmLaw 100 Ranked law firm where your career path doesn't have to be a mystery. Whether your long-term goal is partnership or pivoting in-house, this firm's reputation, client base, and mentorship culture will help you get there. Why This Role Stands Out: Strategic Career Launchpad: Work at an Am Law 100 firm known for producing future partners and highly sought-after in-house counsel. Know when your promotion and compensation raises will be. You won't be left in the dust, wondering when the next raise will be. Client-Facing from Day One: Gain direct access to a major client, allowing you to build meaningful relationships and sharpen your business acumen. Mentorship That Matters: Join a collaborative team that invests in your development-not just your billables. Flexibility Built In: Hybrid work arrangements support your life outside the office without compromising your growth inside it. Diverse Litigation Work: From general liability and construction to transportation and NY Labor Law, you'll handle a wide range of high-impact matters. What You Bring: 3+ years of litigation experience (insurance defense, general liability, or construction law a plus) Admission to practice in New York Strong writing, analytical, and case management skills A proactive mindset and a collaborative spirit Compensation & Benefits: Competitive salary range: $150,000 - $200,000, plus quarterly & annual bonus 1950 billable hour requirement Comprehensive benefits including 401(k) with match, medical/dental/vision, life insurance, and generous PTO Corporate perks and professional development support You don't have to be actively looking to be ready to make a move. Let's talk about how this role could align with your long-term goals-on your terms.

Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance (ARSA) and its affiliates are the largest Plastic Surgery medical practice in the country. Our expanding team of top tier physicians, coupled with our continued medical advancements, allows us to offer patients extraordinary clinical services with a 5-star experience. We have a bold vision with a desire to revolutionize the industry, meeting patient needs while favorably transforming their lives. Common across the enterprise is not only the commitment to providing safe patient care, but to employee satisfaction and growth opportunities. It is a culture of teamwork, respect and appreciation for all employees-whether caring for patients directly or working in a support role. Job Overview: We are seeking a dynamic and highly skilled Associate Attorney with a unique combination of general corporate law and medical law experience. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge in drafting corporate documents, medical regulations, healthcare compliance, and experience advising medical professionals, providers, and organizations on general legal issues. Key Responsibilities: Provide legal advice and counsel to corporate clients with a focus on healthcare, including healthcare providers, hospitals, private practice, and other healthcare-related entities. Draft and review contracts. Provide legal guidance to healthcare professionals and institutions on issues such as malpractice, insurance, and employment law, focusing on both corporate and medical aspects. Conduct research on healthcare regulations, corporate governance issues, and legal matters affecting the healthcare sector. Collaborate with other attorneys in the firm on cross-disciplinary issues, leveraging both corporate and medical legal knowledge to provide comprehensive legal solutions. Qualifications: Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. 5-7 years of experience practicing corporate law, medical experience preferred Strong communication, negotiation, and client management skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Excellent legal writing and research skills. A proactive, detail-oriented, and organized approach to work. Preferred Experience: Experience advising healthcare providers (e.g., physicians, hospitals, medical practices) on operational and regulatory matters. Familiarity with healthcare fraud investigations, licensing matters, and litigation. Compensation & Benefits: Pay Range: $175,000-$200,000 annually the starting rate within this range for this role varies depending on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and location. · Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, HSA and Long-Term Disability insurance 401k and Profit sharing Paid Time Off Mileage Reimbursement Contribution to Health Benefits Company Discounts on Products & Services Job Type: Full-time

Coffey Modica LLP is growing and seeking a talented General Liability Associate Attorney to join our team in Manhattan. With over 50 attorneys across eight offices in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, and Georgia, we are a leading litigation defense firm known for our high-profile cases, client relationships, and trial excellence. About the Role: This is a hybrid position (three days in-office) offering flexibility, hands-on litigation experience, and the opportunity to work on complex, high-stakes matters. You'll work directly with national and regional clients and collaborate with seasoned trial attorneys across a range of general liability issues, including: New York Labor Law Personal injury Transportation and trucking Catastrophic injury We're looking for attorneys with 2-5+ years of experience in any of these areas. New York Bar admission is required. What You'll Do Manage your own caseload from day one Conduct depositions, court appearances, and motion practice Collaborate with partners and senior attorneys on trial preparation Engage directly with clients and insurance carriers Contribute to a supportive, team-oriented culture Why Coffey Modica? Recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York (2023, 2024, 2025) Meaningful mentorship and internal training programs Frequent opportunities for advancement and trial work Hybrid work schedule with a business-casual environment Benefits Competitive compensation and annual bonus potential 401(k) with firm match Generous hybrid flexibility Full medical, dental, and vision insurance We are proud to foster a firm culture grounded in inclusion, collaboration, and continuous learning. Coffey Modica LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity in all forms.

Personal Injury - Associate Attorney Join a growing boutique personal injury firm in New York and New Jersey. This role offers hands-on litigation experience, direct client contact, and regular access to firm leadership within a collaborative team environment. Responsibilities Manage personal injury cases from intake through resolution, including trial. Draft pleadings, motions, and discovery; conduct and defend depositions. Appear in court for hearings, mediations, and trials. Collaborate with partners on case strategy and settlement negotiations. Maintain consistent communication with clients. Qualifications 1-5 years of personal injury or civil litigation experience. Active admission in New York or New Jersey. Experience with depositions, hearings, and trials. Strong legal research and writing skills. Ability to thrive in a small, fast-paced team. Bilingual skills are a plus. Why Join Direct mentorship and leadership exposure. Significant courtroom experience. Collaborative, team-focused environment. Competitive compensation, 401(k), PTO, and CLE support. Opportunity for long-term growth.

Well-established plaintiff's trial law firm is seeking attorneys to litigate and improve their skills. Qualified candidates are adaptable, detail-oriented, proactive, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. This is an excellent and exciting opportunity for a motivated individual looking for professional growth and development. Primary Responsibilities: Drafting legal documents such as pleadings, motions, discovery Client consultations and hearing preparation Prepare for and conduct/defend depositions Draft and argue motions Assist with trial preparation Manage all aspects of discovery Work both independently and closely with other attorneys and paralegals Qualifications: Admitted to New York required, and admitted to Federal is a plus Familiarity with NYSCEF, E-law and PACER Analytical and detail-oriented Strong verbal and written communication skills Bilingual preferred , but not required Schedule: Monday to Friday Full-time, on-site . Salary commensurate based on experience level. All interviews are conducted in-person.

Law Firm, New York Additional locations: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orange County, Houston, Chicago All inquires are confidential. The firm will not see your information without your consent. I am working with a leading international law firm that is seeking an M&A Associate to join its market-leading Corporate practice. The firm advises public and private companies, boards, and private equity sponsors on complex domestic and cross-border transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, and carve-outs. In this role you will: Advise on public and private M&A transactions across multiple industries. Draft and negotiate key transaction documents (purchase agreements, disclosure schedules, ancillary agreements). Conduct due diligence and coordinate closing processes. Work closely with partners and senior associates on deal strategy and execution. You should: Have at least 2+ years of M&A experience. Exposure to both strategic and private equity transactions preferred. Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills. Strong academic credentials and large-firm training. This role offers: The ability to work on market-shaping deals with leading global clients. Collaboration across corporate, tax, antitrust, and finance teams worldwide. Access to top-tier mentorship and professional development resources. Competitive compensation and cross-office career mobility.

** Full end of year bonus + Signing bonus ** You have the science degree. You have the patent litigation experience. So why are you still stuck on the sidelines? You should be taking depositions, arguing in court, and working with key experts-not just summarizing their reports. You're ready to be a trial lawyer, not just a litigation associate. We are building a trial team for a series of high-stakes biologics and pharmaceutical patent disputes. This isn't a backfill position; it's a strategic expansion for a Tier 1 practice that consistently tries and wins the biggest cases in the life sciences sector. What You'll Actually Do: Get substantive, stand-up courtroom and deposition experience from day one. Work directly with trial partners who are leaders in the field, not through layers of senior associates. Shape case strategy on disputes involving blockbuster drugs and cutting-edge gene therapies. What You Bring: 2-7 years of patent litigation experience. A technical degree in Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacology, or a related discipline is required. A desire to be in the courtroom and the drive to win. Bar admission in good standing. What You Get: Top-of-Market Pay: Cravath scale base salary No Bonus Left Behind: A guaranteed, full year-end bonus this year (no pro-ration) plus a significant signing bonus for joining the team ASAP. Real Professional Development: A bespoke training program designed to build first-chair trial lawyers, not just support staff. Premier Benefits: Top-tier health, wellness, and family leave benefits that exceed the industry standard. The Catch: We are selectively and confidentially recruiting for 2-3 key associates for this specific trial team. The interview process will be fast, and decisions will be made quickly. This is your chance to leapfrog your peers. Apply Now Submit your application through LinkedIn or email me directly at ************************

A prominent legal organization is seeking an anchor attorney to exclusively handle homicide cases in New York. The role involves representing clients, mentoring attorneys, and providing leadership within the Homicide Defense Task Force. Qualified candidates will have substantial litigation experience and a commitment to professional development. This full-time position offers a salary range of $84,000 - $152,500 along with a comprehensive benefits package including health and life insurance, paid vacation, and more. #J-18808-Ljbffr

New York State bar admission Minimum of 2- 5 years of legal experience Experience with digital document management systems Frink-Hamlett Legal Solutions is an equal employment opportunity employer and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or citizenship status.

Join a fast-growing, highly respected plaintiff-side employment litigation firm in Manhattan that has built its reputation on fearlessly taking on employers of all sizes and delivering real results for workers. Founded by nationally recognised employment litigators, the firm is known for its aggressive advocacy, strong class action outcomes, and a culture that prioritises impact, integrity, and professional growth. This is a hybrid role (office presence encouraged but flexible) offering meaningful responsibility, courtroom exposure, and a clear path toward partnership for the right attorney. Why You Should Join: Lead High-Value Wage & Hour and Employment Class Actions: Take ownership of complex plaintiff-side wage & hour, discrimination, retaliation, and whistleblower matters, including class and collective actions. You'll work on cases from intake through settlement, directly shaping litigation strategy and outcomes rather than supporting from the sidelines. Pure Plaintiff-Side Litigation Platform: This is a 100% plaintiff-side practice - no defense work, no conflicts. The firm is deeply mission-driven, representing employees in age, gender, race, disability, pregnancy, LGBTQ, and wage theft matters, and has a strong track record resolving class actions efficiently and favorably. Accelerated Career Growth & Partner Track: Attorneys are trusted early with substantive responsibility and client contact. For proven litigators, there is a clear and realistic path to partnership, with flexibility for senior hires who bring leadership capability or a portable book of business. Flexible Hybrid Structure with Autonomy: Work from a Manhattan office with a flexible hybrid arrangement tailored to the attorney - not rigid policies. The firm values productivity, ownership, and results over face-time. Compensation That Reflects Impact: Competitive base salary $190K-$220K, plus benefits and long-term upside aligned with performance, origination, and leadership contribution. Key Duties: Litigate plaintiff-side employment matters, with a primary focus on wage & hour class and collective actions. Draft and argue motions, manage discovery, conduct depositions, and negotiate settlements. Drive case strategy in discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination, whistleblower, and harassment matters. Work directly with named plaintiffs and class members from intake through resolution. Collaborate closely with firm leadership on litigation strategy, settlement positioning, and case valuation. Ideal Candidate: 5-10 years of plaintiff-side employment litigation experience (wage & hour required). Demonstrated experience resolving or contributing meaningfully to class action settlements. Strong litigation background with excellent writing, strategy, and negotiation skills. Plaintiff mindset with the ability to independently manage cases. NY Bar admission required. Stable work history and desire for long-term growth within a plaintiff-side platform. Take the Next Step: 📧 Email: ****************************** - include resume and any relevant settlement or litigation highlights. 📅 Calendar: ************************************************************************** - Schedule a confidential discussion to explore fit and timing.

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Attorney to join our team. As an Attorney, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of legal matters, represent clients in various legal proceedings, and provide expert legal advice. You will play a crucial role in upholding our commitment to delivering top-tier legal services. Key Responsibilities: Conduct legal research and analysis to provide informed and strategic advice to clients. Draft legal documents, contracts, pleadings, and other legal instruments. Represent clients in court proceedings, negotiations, and settlement discussions. Provide guidance and counsel to clients on a variety of legal issues. Stay current with changes in the law and industry trends. Collaborate with colleagues and support staff to achieve client objectives. Maintain accurate and organized case files and documentation. Qualifications: Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. Admission to the state bar and in good standing with all applicable bar associations. 3 plus years of experience practicing law Strong legal research and analytical skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities. Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team. Client-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering exceptional service. Benefits: Competitive salary based on experience Health, dental, and vision insurance. Retirement savings plan. Supportive and collaborative work environment. Opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Work-life balance initiatives. How to Apply: If you are a dedicated and motivated Attorney looking to join a reputable law firm, we invite you to submit your resume to *************************** or call Christine Prieur at **************. Join our team and be part of a forward-thinking law firm dedicated to achieving excellence in the practice of law. Your expertise will make a meaningful impact on our clients and their legal needs. We look forward to reviewing your application. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.

We are partnered with a boutique NYC based law firm seeking an attorney to join their team. Opportunity to work on commercial litigation matters in various practice areas. Role offers the opportunity to work alongside Partners and gain valuable experience from a smaller, collegial team. Full benefits package offered, no billable requirement, and hybrid schedule. Base salary 100-140K

Employment Law Attorney | New York, NY A leading plaintiff-side employment law firm in New York City is seeking a passionate and experienced Employment Law Attorney to represent workers in complex workplace rights cases. This is a full-time, in-office position with opportunities for impact litigation and client advocacy. Responsibilities: Handle a full caseload of employment matters from intake through resolution or trial. Conduct client interviews, legal research, and case evaluation. Draft complaints, motions, discovery, and legal briefs. Represent clients at hearings, mediations, depositions, and trials. Negotiate settlements and advocate for employee rights. Qualifications: 2-5 years of litigation experience in employment law. Strong knowledge of Title VII, ADA, ADEA, NYSHRL, and NYCHRL. Excellent writing, research, and oral advocacy skills. Passion for advancing civil rights and workplace equity. Salary and Other Compensation: The annual salary for this position is between $130,000-$200,000 annually, plus bonus. Factors which may affect pay within this range include geography/market, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: Medical insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance 401(k)

FDR Consulting Group has over 20 years of experience in providing job placements for individual attorneys, practice groups, and facilitating mergers for law firms and corporations. Role: Life Sciences Patent Associate Attorney with at least 2 years of firm experience in patent preparation and prosecution, client counseling, portfolio management, Freedom-to-operate, patentability, invalidity analysis, due diligence and post grant proceeding. Associate attorneys should have a advanced degree (Ph.D. Preferred) in biology or chemistry. Qualifications: 2+ Years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution. Excellent oral and written communications skills. USPTO registration. State Bar. Candidates can be based in New York or Boston. Degree in Biology or Chemistry (Ph.D. degree preferred).