Major League Soccer Players Association

The Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA) is seeking a dedicated Staff Counsel to support its mission to empower players by establishing a supportive community and unified voice that positively impacts the lives of its past, current, and future members. 

The MLSPA is the union representing all MLS players. It was formed in 2003 to protect players' rights, promote their interests, and provide a unified voice. The MLSPA is a democratic organization run by players, and its primary goal is to negotiate and enforce a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that covers various aspects of players' careers, including salaries, bonuses, health insurance, discipline, free agency, and retirement plans for players.

Key Responsibilities:

• CBA Enforcement:

  • Administer and enforce the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with Major League Soccer (MLS).

  • Investigate, research, draft, and prosecute grievances under the CBA.

• Player Representation:

  • Represent players facing potential league discipline (on-field or off-field).

• Collective Bargaining:

  • Advise the MLSPA on collective bargaining matters.

  • Support negotiations with MLS for the CBA and settlements.

• Legal Support:

  • Analyze legal issues and develop/execute strategies to benefit the MLSPA and its members.

  • Provide legal advice on various matters like employment, labor, intellectual property, and operations.

  • Draft and negotiate agreements with vendors and partners.

• Leadership and Management:

  • Supervise and coordinate activities of legal fellows, clerks, and support staff.

Ideal Candidate:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• Active bar membership in good standing (or willingness to waive into the Maryland State Bar)

• Strong writing and oral advocacy skills

• Minimum of 3 years of legal experience (including judicial clerkships)

• Understanding of labor union structure, governance, and operations

• Knowledge of labor law, employment law, and collective bargaining processes

• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic

• Passion for advocating for professional soccer players

If you're ready for this exciting career opportunity, please email [email protected] with the subject line “Staff Counsel” and a copy of your resume and cover letter. 

Location: Bethesda, MD