Securities Associate

About the role

The role advances public company compliance by addressing federal and state securities obligations. The associate supports the Corporate Department through reporting, filings, and client advisory work. This position requires a high level of discretion and judgment when dealing with sensitive regulatory matters. You will be responsible for ensuring that public company clients adhere to complex disclosure rules. The work involves close collaboration with corporate practice teams and direct client interaction. Success in this role depends on a deep understanding of SEC frameworks and application. This is a hands-on position where your contributions directly impact client compliance. The environment values structured processes and clear communication.

Key facts

What you'll do

Conduct in-depth reviews of corporate governance practices to ensure alignment with stock exchange listing standards. Advise directors, officers, and shareholders on SEC reporting obligations to clarify roles and procedures. Draft and analyze periodic reports required under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 with precision. Perform comprehensive assessments of public company disclosure obligations to satisfy regulatory rules. Collaborate with the corporate practice team to handle complex client matters efficiently. Monitor changes in securities regulation to provide current advisory support to public clients. Coordinate with internal stakeholders to gather data necessary for accurate filings. Provide clear and responsive communication to clients regarding their compliance responsibilities. Identify potential gaps in reporting and recommend corrective actions proactively. Support the development of policy documentation related to public company compliance.

Requirements

You must possess a bachelor's degree, though the specific field is detailed A degree qualifies candidates for the role and provides a foundation for understanding complex regulations. At least 4 years of substantial experience with federal and state securities laws is required and demonstrated. Significant experience drafting periodic reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is essential and shown. You must have a proven track record of handling SEC reporting obligations for directors, officers, and shareholders. Advisory experience for public clients on corporate governance and stock exchange listing requirements is a core requirement. Outstanding writing, research, and analytical skills must be exhibited consistently. Strong motivation to contribute within an active corporate practice and assume direct responsibility for client matters is necessary. Maintaining strong academic credentials throughout your education is expected. Admission and good standing with the local state bar or eligibility to waive is mandatory.

Nice to have

Preferred candidates will have experience navigating the intersection of regulatory compliance and public company advisory. Familiarity with the practical realities of stock exchange listing standards is a distinct advantage. An understanding of the collegial and supportive culture found in established law firms is beneficial. Experience contributing to structured processes for reviews, compensation, and policy changes is valued. Capability to operate with discretion, fairness, and clear communication in sensitive situations is preferred.

Practical notes

The role is based in Indianapolis. External agency or recruiter submissions are not considered. Typical interview steps include a case scenario, a policy question, and behavioral rounds. Candidates may be asked to design an interview process or handle a sensitive employee situation. Confidentiality and judgment are tested throughout. Structured answers with empathy land best. Interviewers often test how you handle sensitive information and disagreement. Framing answers around policy, fairness, and company values works well.

Good to know

Legal professionals operate within a securities regulatory environment that emphasizes public company compliance. Research, writing, and analysis skills support filings and advisory work within a collegial and supportive firm culture. Academic background and professional bar standing form foundational requirements for practice in this field. Work centers on securities regulations, public company reporting, and related advisory services. Apply directly through the firm's process without intermediary agents.

Questions to ask

Good questions to ask the employer in the interview: what does success look like in the first six months, how is the team structured, what is the current biggest challenge, and how are decisions made. Asking about growth paths and the review process is also well received. Employers expect questions, and good ones show preparation.

Career growth

People careers grow from coordinator to generalist, manager, and director levels. Recruiters can move into talent leadership. HR partners can move into people operations leadership. Business acumen becomes more important at each level. People careers reward breadth across recruitment, development, and operations. Experience with tools such as HRIS and ATS systems helps at every level.

About the company

Barnes & Thornburg LLP is seeking a motivated attorney with international trade experience to join our Washington, D. C. office.