Careers

With over 70 attorneys maintaining a tradition of excellence in offices in Washington, D.C., Denver, Colorado, and Austin, Texas, we bring big firm legal skills with a small firm approach.

As a mid-sized communications, energy, and technology law firm based in Washington, D.C., Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP provides the quality of representation and client base typically associated with a large firm, while maintaining the personal style of a smaller firm. To sustain and enhance these unique qualities, the firm seeks candidates who have balanced excellence in law school with solid professional and personal achievements.

WBK is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of gender, age, racial or ethnic background, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or veteran status. The ideal candidate will also bring a strong work ethic, team‑oriented ethos, and a healthy, perhaps even irreverent, sense of humor. We look forward to meeting you.

Read the Five Pillars of WBK.

Lateral Openings
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Lateral Openings

At such time as there are lateral openings at the firm, that information will be posted here.

 

Associate Openings
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Associate Openings

ENTRY LEVEL ASSOCIATE – FALL 2026
Washington, DC | Denver, CO

To apply, please complete an application HERE and attach your cover letter, resume, transcript (including class rank), and writing sample in pdf format. Deadline for submission is June 15, 2025.

Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP seeks an entry-level associate with zero to two years of experience for its top-tier communications, energy and technology practice. This position is to begin in Fall 2026 and may be located in our Washington, DC or Denver, Colorado office. Applicants should possess outstanding academic credentials, superb writing ability, excellent analytical skills, and sound judgment. We provide competitive compensation and benefits, excellent partnership prospects, and an enjoyable, inclusive, good-natured work environment.

Our Firm

Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP (WBK), one of the largest law firms in the nation dedicated primarily to the practice of communications and energy law, is ranked as a “Band 1” firm by Chambers USA (Telecom, Broadcast, and Satellite: Regulatory) and Legal 500 (Telecoms and broadcast: regulatory), and is recognized as a “Silver Band” firm in the World Trademark Review 1000. WBK is the only firm to be named “Law Firm of the Year” in communications law six times by Best Lawyers Best Law Firm (2012, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2025). The firm, with offices in Washington, DC, Denver, Colorado, and Austin, Texas, advises clients ranging from global Fortune 100 companies to small start-ups in regulatory, transactional, privacy, consumer protection, intellectual property, corporate and litigation matters involving all aspects of communications and energy law, at both the state and federal levels. To learn more about Wilkinson Barker Knauer, visit www.wbklaw.com.

WBK is a special place to practice law; we mean it when we say we are #notjustanotherlawfirm. With over 70 attorneys and advisors, the firm provides the quality of representation and client base typically associated with a large firm, with the personal style only a smaller firm can deliver. Each day, we work together for both the common good of the group and the common goal of building and maintaining a nationally recognized legal practice. We highly value collaboration, supporting each other personally and professionally using our individual talents and expertise. WBK has long been committed to providing all of our team members with an environment that allows each individual to reach their full potential in their own unique way. Our team invests in our communities with attorneys and staff devoting substantial time and energy to pro bono work, volunteerism, civic and community leadership, charitable giving, mentoring, service on nonprofit boards, teaching, and more. These activities are actively encouraged and supported throughout WBK.

To sustain and enhance these unique firm qualities, we seek candidates who have balanced excellence in law school and career achievements with a personal commitment to advance the legal profession and serve the broader community. The ideal candidate will bring a strong work ethic, team-oriented ethos, and a healthy, perhaps even irreverent, sense of humor.

Compensation and Benefits: Associates’ annual base compensation is based on a lockstep scale and ranges from $170,000 to $250,000. Associates are eligible for an annual bonus based on their performance during the preceding 12 months. In addition to compensation and bonuses, Associates are eligible for the following benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance; short term disability; long term disability insurance; life insurance; accidental death or dismemberment insurance; travel insurance; employee assistance plan; a 401(k) plan; profit sharing (once eligible); parental leave; vacation/personal leave; wireless phone service allowance, and coverage of bar association dues consistent with WBK policies. Associates can also make pre-tax contributions for transportation, parking, dependent care, and a health savings account (if enrolled in a high deductible medical plan). All benefits listed above are subject to change at the discretion of WBK.

WBK is an Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of gender, age, racial or ethnic background, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or veteran status.

We look forward to meeting you.

 

2L SUMMER ASSOCIATE – SUMMER 2026
Washington, DC | Denver, CO

To apply, please complete an application HERE and attach your cover letter, resume, transcript (including class rank), and writing sample in pdf format. If class rank is not available at time of application, please supplement the application when available. Deadline for submission is July 1, 2025.

Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP seeks a 2L Summer Associate for its top-tier communications, energy, and technology practice. This is a 10-week position during the summer of 2026, and the selected candidate will be expected to work primarily in person and may select either our Washington, DC or Denver, Colorado office. Applicants should possess outstanding academic credentials, superb writing ability, excellent analytical skills, and sound judgment. We provide competitive compensation and an enjoyable, inclusive, good-natured work environment.

Our Firm

Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP (WBK), one of the largest law firms in the nation dedicated primarily to the practice of communications and energy law, is ranked as a “Band 1” firm by Chambers USA (Telecom, Broadcast, and Satellite: Regulatory) and Legal 500 (Telecoms and broadcast: regulatory), and is recognized as a “Silver Band” firm in the World Trademark Review 1000. WBK is the only firm to be named “Law Firm of the Year” in communications law six times by Best Lawyers Best Law Firm (2012, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2025). The firm, with offices in Washington, DC, Denver, Colorado, and Austin, Texas, advises clients ranging from global Fortune 100 companies to small start-ups in regulatory, transactional, privacy, consumer protection, intellectual property, corporate and litigation matters involving all aspects of communications and energy law, at both the state and federal levels. To learn more about Wilkinson Barker Knauer, visit www.wbklaw.com.

WBK is a special place to practice law; we mean it when we say we are #notjustanotherlawfirm. With over 70 attorneys and advisors, the firm provides the quality of representation and client base typically associated with a large firm, with the personal style only a smaller firm can deliver. Each day, we work together for both the common good of the group and the common goal of building and maintaining a nationally recognized legal practice. We highly value collaboration, supporting each other personally and professionally using our individual talents and expertise. WBK has long been committed to providing all of our team members with an environment that allows each individual to reach their full potential in their own unique way. Our team invests in our communities with attorneys and staff devoting substantial time and energy to pro bono work, volunteerism, civic and community leadership, charitable giving, mentoring, service on nonprofit boards, teaching, and more. These activities are actively encouraged and supported throughout WBK.

To sustain and enhance these unique firm qualities, we seek candidates who have balanced excellence in law school and career achievements with a personal commitment to advance the legal profession and serve the broader community. The ideal candidate will bring a strong work ethic, team-oriented ethos, and a healthy, perhaps even irreverent, sense of humor.

Compensation and Benefits: Summer Associate compensation will be $3,654 per week in DC or $3,270 per week in Denver. As a seasonal employee, you will not be eligible for any firm benefits.

WBK is an Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of gender, age, racial or ethnic background, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or veteran status.

We look forward to meeting you.

Administrative Openings
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Administrative Openings

MARKETING SPECIALIST
Washington, DC

Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP a top-tier regulatory practice with offices in Washington, DC, Denver, CO, and Austin, TX seeks a Marketing Specialist based in its Washington, DC office. This is a non-exempt position with a 40-hour work week, the need for occasional overtime, and the potential to work remote up to two days each week. We provide competitive compensation and benefits, engaging projects, and an enjoyable, good-natured work environment. The Marketing Specialist will be an integral part of our innovative marketing team.  This position will support the marketing and business development efforts for the firm by increasing the firm’s and its attorneys’ visibility, building and coordinating critical business development resources, and collaborating with others in the Marketing Department to provide efficient and effective client service.  This is an excellent opportunity to build and grow your career, with clear potential for advancement within the firm.  The Marketing Specialist will report to our Senior Manager, Operations & Marketing Services.

How to Apply

To be considered for this position, please submit one pdf containing your cover letter and resume HERE .

Job Responsibilities

The Marketing Specialist collaborates closely with attorneys in our Washington, DC, Denver, CO, and Austin, TX offices to perform the following tasks.  Other responsibilities may be changed or assigned depending on expertise and workload, as deemed necessary by the Firm:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Event Planning & Coordination: Assist in planning client and firm events, including venue selection, RSVP management, catering, and on-site coordination.
  • Public Relations: Draft press releases and manage distribution through Cision.
  • Marketing Support: Design, edit and manage distribution of marketing collateral for attorneys and events. Assist in production of promotional items and client holiday gifts. Maintain and utilize the firm’s CRM database for client outreach. Research industry marketing strategies
  • Social Media & Website: Build the Firm’s social media presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter and other platforms. Maintain firm’s website – attorney bios, practice areas, job postings, and news items
  • Legal Awards & Sponsorships: Draft and coordinate submissions for all legal awards and ranking processes. Explore and identify other rankings for potential participation.  Review and update attorney profiles on appropriate rankings websites and recommend nominations for our attorneys.

Qualifications

A strong candidate will have these essential qualifications: a self-starter with the ability to think and work independently; has attention to detail, is creative, has excellent writing skills, can multi-task and appropriately prioritize deadlines, and desires to improve upon existing processes continually. Must be able to work with all levels of law firm personnel and external vendors in a collaborative environment.

Education and/or Experience

Requires a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a relevant field, or 2-5 years of marketing experience. Proficiency in Salesforce, Canva, Cision, Constant Contact, Adobe, Microsoft Office Suite, and cloud document management system required.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation is based on years of experience; the range for this position is $60,000 to $80,000 annually. Staff are eligible for a discretionary bonus based on their performance during the preceding 12 months. In addition to compensation and bonuses, full-time staff are eligible for the following benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; long term disability insurance; accidental death or dismemberment insurance; short term disability insurance; travel insurance; a 401(k) plan; profit sharing (once eligible); parental leave; vacation/personal leave; pre-tax payment/contributions for transportation, parking, dependent care; and a health savings account (if enrolled in a high deductible medical plan). All benefits listed above are subject to change at the discretion of the Partnership.

About Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP

Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP (WBK), one of the largest law firms in the nation dedicated primarily to the practice of communications and energy law, is ranked as a “Band 1” firm by Chambers USA (Telecom, Broadcast, and Satellite: Regulatory) and Legal 500 (Telecoms and broadcast: regulatory), and is recognized as a “Silver Band” firm in the World Trademark Review 1000. WBK is the only firm to be named “Law Firm of the Year” in communications law six times by Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms (2012, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2025). The Firm, with offices in Washington, DC, Denver, Colorado, and Austin, Texas, advises clients ranging from global Fortune 100 companies to small start-ups in regulatory, transactional, privacy, consumer protection, intellectual property, corporate and litigation matters involving all aspects of communications and energy law, at both the state and federal levels. To learn more about Wilkinson Barker Knauer, visit www.wbklaw.com.

WBK has long been committed to providing all of our team members with an environment that allows each individual to reach their full potential in their own unique way. Our team invests in our communities with attorneys and staff devoting substantial time and energy to pro bono work, volunteerism, civic and community leadership, charitable giving, mentoring, service on nonprofit boards, teaching, and more. These activities are actively encouraged and supported throughout WBK.

WBK is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of gender, age, racial or ethnic background, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or veteran status.

The Application Process

Candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, transcript, and a writing sample via Paycom link.

The interview process generally consists of an initial screening interview, as well as a call-back interview to meet with other associates and partners. Candidates should bring copies of their references to the initial screening interview, as well as an updated résumé and/or transcript, to the extent information has become outdated or was not previously provided. Reasonable travel expenses will be compensated for call-back interviews, which generally last several hours in either a morning or afternoon session.

New Associates

Wilkinson Barker seeks to extend offers for permanent positions as early as possible during the fall, generally by December 1.  Based on which office they will be associated with, all new associates are required to become members of the D.C. Bar, Colorado Bar, or Texas Bar, either by examination or waiver.

Entry-level Associates typically join the firm in late August or early September, following completion of their bar exam.  The firm provides a stipend to assist with living expenses, bar preparation, and exam expenses after graduation and prior to their start date with the firm.

The entry-level salary for new attorneys is set each year at competitive levels.

In addition to compensation and bonuses, Associates are eligible for the following benefits:  medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; accidental death or dismemberment insurance; short term disability insurance; long term disability insurance; travel insurance; 401(k) plan; profit sharing (once eligible); parental leave; vacation/personal leave; wireless phone service allowance; coverage of bar association dues consistent with WBK policies; pre-tax payment/contributions for transportation, parking, and dependent care; and a health savings account (if enrolled in a high deductible medical plan).  All benefits listed above are subject to change at the discretion of the Partnership.

Summer Associate Program

Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP posts for our Summer Associate Program in early spring each year.  This program is for candidates the summer before their final year of law school (e.g., the 2L-3L summer for students on the traditional three-year law school track). The firm also accepts applications for summer associate positions.

Law Clerk Opportunities

The hiring of law clerks is done on a case-by-case basis.

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We have used the firm for over 70 years.  They have expanded their areas of expertise with technology, but have always retained remarkable responsiveness and very high cost effectiveness.

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