Senior Legal Project Manager
San Francisco, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Denver, CO, Boston, MA, New York, NY or Washington, DC
Summary
Play a key role in shaping how complex legal work is planned, managed, and delivered. In this position, you will lead project management for high-value, high-risk matters, bringing structure, financial discipline, and transparency to every phase of delivery. You’ll partner closely with attorneys and cross-functional leaders across Pricing, Finance, Staffing, and Technology to drive alignment and elevate matter performance. In addition to hands-on leadership of critical engagements, you will manage and develop a team of Legal Project Managers while reinforcing consistent, high-impact project management practices across the firm.
- Lead project management for complex, high-value legal matters from scoping through close, ensuring alignment with client expectations
- Develop and manage workplans, timelines, staffing models, and budgets; monitor progress and proactively address risks, scope changes, and variances
- Partner with Pricing and Finance to build and manage detailed matter budgets, including alternative fee arrangements (AFAs) such as fixed fees and fee caps
- Track financial performance (burn rates, accruals, forecasts) and support partners with client-facing budget updates and course correction strategies
- Contribute to RFPs, pitches, and client proposals with project planning, staffing models, and pricing input
- Manage and mentor a small team of Legal Project Managers, providing coaching, oversight, and acting as an escalation point for complex issues
- Deliver training and guidance to attorneys and teams on matter scoping, budgeting, forecasting, and project management best practices
- Oversee adoption and day-to-day use of Cosine, the firm’s matter management and budgeting tool, ensuring consistent use for planning, tracking, and reporting
- Partner with Finance, Pricing, and Technology teams to enhance workflows, reporting accuracy, and overall matter delivery
- Support continuous improvement of legal project management practices, tools, and templates to drive efficiency, consistency, and strong client outcomes
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA, JD, or equivalent) a plus
- 8+ years of experience in legal project management, pricing, practice management, consulting, or professional services operations
- Experience managing complex legal matters and budgets in a law firm or similar environment
- Prior team leadership or people management experience
- Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior partner
- Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, Agile, or equivalent)
- Experience with alternative fee arrangements and client-facing pricing discussions
- Familiarity with legal matter management, e-billing, and financial reporting systems
- Experience with Amazon legal a plus
- Strong communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines
- Proactive problem-solver with a client-service mindset
Benefits
- The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package starting on your first day.
- A variety of options for medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage to meet the needs of you and your family.
- Industry-leading parental leave and family benefits including adoption and fertility treatment options and backup child and elder care.
- Global wellness program, including free access to Talkspace and Calm apps.
- Annual community service day to make an impact on your community and a birthday holiday just for fun.
- Education reimbursement annually.
- Dedicated Talent Development team.
- Competitive annual profit-sharing contribution.
Where required by law, salary ranges are stated below. Additional compensation may include a discretionary bonus, overtime as applicable, health/welfare benefits, retirement contributions, paid holidays, and PTO. The range displayed is specifically for positions performed in those cities/states and may vary based on factors including but not limited to the following: local market data and ranges; an applicant’s skills and prior relevant experience; and certain degrees, licensing, and certifications. Per Colorado law, this posting includes an anticipated application deadline of September 18, 2026. The position may close earlier if a suitable candidate is identified.
- New York, San Francisco salary range: $164,000.00-$229,000.00, plus bonus
- Los Angeles, Boston, Washington, D.C. salary range: $156,000.00-$218,000.00, plus bonus
- Denver salary range: $146,000.00-$204,000.00, plus bonus
#LI-Hybrid
Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid
Salary: $146,000.00-$229,000.00, plus bonus
Date Active: 3.20.2026
Exempt/Not Exempt: Exempt