Real Estate Associate Attorney (Hospitality Focus)

Direct Counsel is seeking a mid-level Real Estate Associate with a hospitality focus to join a top-tier, globally recognized law firm in its Chicago office. This is an exceptional opportunity to work within a highly ranked hospitality and leisure practice advising on some of the most sophisticated hotel and mixed-use real estate transactions in the market.

This role is ideal for an attorney who combines strong technical real estate expertise with commercial awareness and is looking to take on meaningful responsibility in a collaborative, high-performing environment.

• Draft and negotiate a wide range of transactional documents, including:

  • Letters of intent

  • Purchase and sale agreements

  • Hotel management, franchise, and license agreements

  • Joint venture agreements

• Structure and close complex hospitality financings, including credit facilities and collateral packages

• Lead and manage transactions from inception through closing

• Oversee and conduct due diligence to identify and mitigate risk

• Collaborate closely with clients, opposing counsel, and internal stakeholders

• Mentor and support junior associates

• 5–7 years of experience in real estate transactional work, ideally with hospitality exposure

• Prior experience at a large law firm is required

• Strong academic credentials

• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills

• Sharp analytical abilities and attention to detail

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Admission to the Illinois Bar (or eligibility to waive in)

• Work on high-profile hospitality projects, including luxury hotels, resorts, and mixed-use developments

• Join a nationally recognized, market-leading practice

• Collaborate with experienced attorneys on complex, high-value transactions

• Gain significant responsibility and client exposure

• Salary range: $345,000 – $400,000, commensurate with experience

• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and generous PTO

• Performance-based bonus opportunities