COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY I

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.