General Counsel | Remote | Crossing Hurdles

Crossing Hurdles; United States; Remote; USD 69,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Global exposure

Job summary

Crossing Hurdles is seeking a Defense Analyst to bridge military operations with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). You will craft taxonomies, assess dual-use technologies, and develop policy benchmarks to ensure ethical and legal compliance in advanced defense projects.

The role emphasizes rigorous legal-ethical analysis, policy development, and collaboration with security experts. This remote post, based in the United Kingdom, offers exposure to international clients and complex regulatory

Qualifications

• Advanced degree or equivalent in security studies or law.
• 8+ years in defense analysis preferred.
• Experience with IHL and policy analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design conflict-risk taxonomies and rubrics.
• Assess defense technologies for IHL compliance.
• Develop policy benchmarks for dual-use capabilities.

Skills

Military analysis

IHL

Policy analysis

Education

Advanced degree in security studies

Job description

This opportunity was posted more than 30 days ago and no application deadline was provided. You can explore active listings below.

Defense Analyst | $90/hr Remote

C

Organising Institution / Firm

Crossing Hurdles

Not Specified by Organiser

Remote (United Kingdom)

Not Specified

Strong experience in military, defense analysis, or IHL (ideally 8+ years for senior roles); Advanced degree in military science, security studies, or international law; Expertise in conflict ethics and operational planning.

Job

Full Opportunity Brief

Navigating the Intersection of Modern Warfare and International Humanitarian Law

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and increasingly complex geopolitical landscapes, the role of a Defense Analyst has evolved from traditional intelligence gathering to a sophisticated multidisciplinary practice. The current opening at Crossing Hurdles represents a unique nexus where military operational strategy meets the rigid, principled framework of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). For legal professionals and security experts, this role is not merely a job; it is a high-stakes engagement with the ethics of modern conflict.

The convergence of AI-driven defense systems and the laws of armed conflict creates a vacuum of expertise that only specialized analysts can fill. This role is at the vanguard of that intersection.

The Strategic Importance of the Defense Analyst Role

The modern battlefield is no longer confined to physical geography; it extends into the digital, cyber, and algorithmic domains. As organizations like Crossing Hurdles look to develop comprehensive taxonomies for military-use operations, they require professionals who can bridge the gap between technical capability and legal compliance. The responsibilities associated with this position - ranging from designing conflict-risk rubrics to establishing boundaries for prohibited assistance - are critical for ensuring that defense activities remain within the bounds of international legality.

For a legal practitioner, this role offers a rare opportunity to influence policy at the design level. Rather than reacting to legal violations after they occur, the Defense Analyst is tasked with building the frameworks that prevent them from happening in the first place. This is the essence of preventative legal engineering in the defense sector.

Building a Career at the Frontier of Security Studies

Securing a position as a senior defense analyst requires more than just a law degree or military experience; it demands a synthesis of both. To build a career trajectory toward such high-impact roles, professionals should focus on the following pillars:

• Deep Domain Expertise: Develop a niche in specific areas such as targeting law, the use of autonomous weapons systems, or the application of IHL in urban warfare.
• Policy-Relevant Research: Engage in think-tank environments or academic publishing to demonstrate your ability to translate complex legal concepts into actionable policy benchmarks.
• Operational Literacy: Understand the 'how' of warfighting. A lawyer who understands the operational constraints of a commander is infinitely more valuable than one who only understands the black-letter law.
• Ethical Framework Development: Master the art of creating scenario-based evaluation tools that can withstand the scrutiny of both military commanders and international human rights bodies.

The Competitive Edge: Why This Role Matters

The compensation range of $50-$90 per hour reflects the scarcity of talent capable of navigating these dual worlds. In the competitive landscape of defense contracting and advisory, your ability to articulate the nuances of 'dual-use' technology - where a single piece of software can serve both civilian and military purposes - is your most marketable asset. Organizations are actively seeking individuals who can provide clear, defensible, and ethically sound analyses that protect both the mission and the reputation of the entity involved.

Furthermore, the remote nature of this contract allows for a globalized career path. By working with entities like Crossing Hurdles, you are not just performing a task; you are contributing to a global discourse on how technology should be governed in the most volatile environments on earth. This is the kind of work that defines a career, providing the gravitas required for future roles in international tribunals, governmental advisory boards, or high-level strategic consulting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the primary focus of the Defense Analyst role at Crossing Hurdles?
A: The role focuses on the intersection of military operations and International Humanitarian Law (IHL). You will be responsible for creating taxonomies, designing conflict-risk rubrics, and ensuring that defense-related technology and operations comply with international legal standards.

Q: Is this role suitable for a legal professional without a military background?
A: While a military background is highly advantageous, the core requirement is an advanced degree or equivalent operational experience in security studies, international law, or related fields. If you have a strong track record in IHL and policy analysis, you are a strong candidate.

Q: How can I best prepare my resume for this type of specialized defense role?
A: Focus on highlighting your experience in 'dual-use' triage, policy-relevant benchmarking, and your ability to communicate complex ethical concepts to non-legal stakeholders. Emphasize any research or advisory roles you have held in think-tanks or governmental bodies.

Q: What does the 'dual-use' triage framework involve?
A: It involves creating systematic methods to evaluate technologies that have both civilian and military applications, ensuring that their deployment in a conflict zone does not violate the principles of distinction and proportionality under IHL.