Junior Legal Associate

About POP MART

POP MART, established in 2010 and listed as 09992.HK, is a worldwide player in trend culture and entertainment. Built around intellectual property, the company has developed an end-to-end system for creative discovery, IP development, and IP operations that supports creators globally while delivering products, services, and immersive experiences to consumers.

The company scouts and supports emerging artists and designers from around the world, turning original ideas into popular character IPs through a structured development and operating model. Its well-known IPs include MOLLY, SKULLPANDA, DIMOO, THE MONSTERS, and Hirono. POP MART brings these characters to life through art toys and related merchandise, continuing to shape consumer trends.

By the end of 2025, POP MART operated more than 630 physical stores and over 2,637 Robo Shops across 20+ countries and regions. Through several cross-border e-commerce channels, the company reached customers in more than 90 countries and regions.

Role Overview

POP MART is looking for a driven Legal Associate with 1 to 3 years of experience to support a fast-moving business. Reporting to Senior Counsel, this role partners with cross-functional teams and provides legal support across commercial contracts, compliance, intellectual property, and litigation matters. The ideal candidate will bring strong commercial judgment, a cooperative approach, and enthusiasm for helping a creative global brand grow.

This role is based in the Culver City, CA office and requires onsite work five days per week. Being together in person is viewed as important for collaboration, connection, and team culture. POP MART operates with a high-trust approach and expects employees to make decisions that support both the team and the business.

What You Will Do

• Prepare, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, such as vendor agreements, licensing deals, NDAs, distribution and wholesale contracts, and marketing services agreements.
• Offer clear, practical advice on contract language, business exposure, and commercial opportunities that align with company goals.
• Create, refresh, and maintain contract templates to support consistency and improve efficiency.
• Support the management and protection of the company’s IP portfolio, including trademarks and copyrights, with guidance from senior legal team members.
• Assist international teams with IP-related issues and help protect creative assets across jurisdictions through research, coordination, and operational assistance.
• Research legal and regulatory issues affecting business operations in the United States and Canada, including physical retail locations and Robo Shop e-commerce channels, and prepare memoranda on associated risks.
• Independently handle legal projects and compliance matters covering import/export rules, product labeling and marking, advertising requirements, data privacy, employment law, and consumer protection.
• Oversee corporate governance matters and help ensure compliance with federal, state, provincial, and local rules, including registrations, licenses, and operating permits.
• Work with business stakeholders to evaluate legal risk tied to new products, services, and regulatory updates.
• Support litigation matters by reviewing and preparing documents and coordinating with outside counsel when needed.
• Collaborate closely with teams such as marketing, operations, finance, IP licensing, and real estate to reduce legal risk and keep activities aligned with business objectives.
• Help build and roll out policies, including employee handbooks and standard operating procedures.
• Identify potential legal issues early and recommend practical solutions that reduce the chance of disputes or business disruption.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school, or an equivalent qualification.
• Active admission to the California State Bar.
• 1 to 3 years of relevant legal experience, ideally in corporate law, commercial transactions, or an in-house legal setting.
• Strong knowledge of contract law, intellectual property law, and business regulations.
• Experience supporting corporate governance and compliance, especially in a retail environment, including regulatory research and reporting.
• Background in U.S. litigation and working with outside counsel.
• Excellent skills in negotiation, drafting, communication, and interpersonal interaction.
• Strong organizational ability and comfort managing several priorities while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to work well with others and also operate independently when needed.
• The posting notes that additional duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may apply beyond those listed here.
• Must be able to remain seated or at a workstation for long periods while using a computer or office equipment.
• Must be able to occasionally lift or move items weighing up to 25 pounds.
• For Los Angeles or San Francisco applicants, the company conducts background checks after a conditional offer and evaluates qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with local fair chance requirements.
• Reasonable accommodation is available for applicants who need help applying, and requests should be sent to [email protected].
• To perform the job successfully, the employee must be able to carry out each responsibility satisfactorily, and reasonable accommodation may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Benefits

• Market-competitive compensation package with 401(k), health insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, and family leave.
• On-the-job learning and training designed to keep employees current with the latest skills and knowledge.
• The role may also be eligible for participation in a company incentive program.

Equal Opportunity

POP MART maintains a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace and provides equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Important Notes

Compensation offers depend on the role location as well as relevant job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Pay ranges may differ by region in the United States.