COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY I
This position reports to our Rochester, NY location
Salary Range: $90,000–$120,000
Are you a rising attorney with a passion for real estate law? Underberg & Kessler LLP is seeking a Commercial Real Estate Associate Attorney with 2–3 years of experience to join our Real Estate & Finance Practice Group in Rochester, NY. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in high-value transactions while working in a collaborative and professional environment.
You will work closely with partners and clients on complex, high-value transactions involving real estate acquisitions, development, leasing, and financing. Our clients include regional and national developers, financial institutions, municipalities, and growing businesses across New York State.
Position Overview:
Manage and advise on a variety of commercial real estate transactions, working with sophisticated clients and collaborating with experienced attorneys and support teams. Take ownership of deals and deliver trusted legal counsel with confidence from purchase and sale agreements to commercial leasing and mortgage financing
Real Estate Transactions:
Assist with commercial property transactions, including purchases, sales, development, leasing, and financing
Draft and negotiate loan documents, leases, easements, and closing documentation
Facilitate due diligence in a variety of transactions
Conduct title and survey reviews, due diligence, and closing coordination
Represent developers, business owners, and financial institutions on transactional matters
Work closely with partners and clients to manage deals from start to finish
Client Advisory & Representation:
Represent banks, developers, investors, and business clients in a variety of real estate matters
Provide strategic legal guidance to clients while managing risk and ensuring compliance
Work directly with decision-makers and business leaders on complex deals
Team & Project Management:
Oversee non-attorney closing personnel and manage closing checklists and timelines
Collaborate with partners and other attorneys across practice groups as needed
Contribute to the success of the Real Estate & Finance team and firm initiatives
Participate in client development efforts
Qualifications
2–3 years of experience in commercial real estate transactions
J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to practice in New York State
Strong drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously with accuracy and professionalism
Team-oriented, with a collaborative mindset
What We Offer
Competitive salary and associate bonus plan
401(k) with 3% profit-sharing + 2% employer contribution
Medical, dental, vision, life, short-term and long-term disability insurance
4 weeks paid time off + paid holidays
Hybrid work schedule after onboarding
Professional mentorship and career development support
About Underberg & Kessler LLP
With a long-standing history of excellence, Underberg & Kessler has been proudly serving businesses and individuals across Western New York for over 100 years. As a trusted legal partner, we are known for delivering top-tier legal services while fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where attorneys can grow, thrive, and make a meaningful impact.
Underberg & Kessler LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Please submit your cover letter, references and resume to Leslie Helmerci, Legal Operations Manager, at lhelmerci@underbergkessler.com.