Real Estate Associate - Cravath Scale

As a former Big Law corporate associate, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate the lateral market without clear guidance. I went through the process myself and ultimately lateraled to an AmLaw 5 firm, which gives me a practical perspective on what actually matters to firms and how candidates can position themselves effectively.

Find out exactly what skills, experience, and qualifications you will need to succeed in this role before applying below.
I'm currently recruiting for Cravath-scale AmLaw 100 firms seeking Real Estate Associates with 2 to 7 years of experience for their New York or Washington D.C. offices. These are core seats on sophisticated commercial real estate teams, with work spanning acquisitions and dispositions, real estate finance and lender representation, leasing (office, retail, and industrial), title and survey review, and general transactional due diligence. Some platforms also offer exposure to joint ventures, development matters, and real estate diligence in connection with M&A.
Key Qualifications2 to 7 years of commercial real estate transactional experience at an AmLaw 200 firm or elite boutiqueDirect experience with one or more of the following: purchase and sale agreements, acquisitions and dispositions, commercial leasing (office, retail, industrial, or data center), real estate finance and lender representation, loan document drafting, title and survey diligence, joint ventures, development agreements, easements and declarations, zoning and land use, or real estate due diligence in connection with M&AJD from a top law school with strong academic credentialsAdmitted in New York or D.C. (depending on office), or eligible to waive in
Desired CompetenciesExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including direct experience with clients, title companies, surveyors, and opposing counselStrong organizational and analytical abilityAbility to manage a fast-paced, complex workload and handle significant individual responsibilityAbility to work collaboratively as part of a team on sophisticated mattersProfessionalism and sound commercial judgment
CompensationBase salary: $235,000 to $420,000, Cravath scale and class-year dependentBonus range: $30,000 to $115,000, based on performance and seniority
About PathfinderAt Pathfinder, I've built our process entirely around the candidate experience, not just firm demand. Since leaving practice, I've helped associates nationwide secure multiple Cravath-scale offers at top firms.
We've placed numerous associates at AmLaw 100 firms and continue to see strong hiring momentum across corporate and real estate practices.
If you're interested in learning more about these Real Estate opportunities in New York or D.C., or if you simply want candid guidance from someone who has been in your position, feel free to reach out through our website at or apply directly. xzbcwsv All inquiries are confidential.