Legal Counsel

Sierra Space; Centennial (CO); On-site; USD 158,189 - 217,508; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with 150% match up to 6%

3 weeks paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision plans

Job summary

Sierra Space is looking for a Legal Counsel to provide strategic legal advice, manage complex legal matters, and ensure compliance with aerospace laws. The position requires strong leadership and communication skills along with significant experience in managing legal projects.

This role is crucial for supporting executive leadership and involves tasks like drafting contracts and advising on corporate governance. The successful candidate will contribute to the company's mission in innovative aerospace technology.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6+ years of relevant legal experience, preferably in defense or aerospace.
• Active bar membership in relevant jurisdiction(s).
• Proven track record managing large teams and complex legal projects.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal counsel to executive leadership.
• Draft and negotiate complex commercial contracts.
• Counsel on employment law matters.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Excellent judgment

Leadership capabilities

Written and verbal communication

Proactive legal approach

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree

Job description

Overview

Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space. We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

The Legal Counsel at Sierra Space will serve as a key strategic advisor to leadership, managing complex legal matters while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the aerospace industry. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this role requires a seasoned legal professional who can balance risk management with business objectives in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

About You

We seek individuals who are passionate about advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We look for those who are committed to innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower. We welcome team members who align with our values, mission and goals while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. Preferred qualifications are a bonus, not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic legal counsel to executive leadership on matters affecting company operations, risk management, and business objectives
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial contracts and agreements, including supplier terms and conditions, non-disclosure agreements, licensing agreements, and property leases
• Assist with M&A, capital markets, and other business transactions
• Counsel on employment law matters and support HR initiatives
• Oversee the implementation and effectiveness of the company's policies and procedures
• Manage relationships with and oversee outside counsel
• Develop, implement, and maintain effective compliance programs aligned with aerospace industry regulations
• Advise on corporate governance matters and support Board of Directors meetings
• Monitor and analyze emerging legal and regulatory developments affecting the aerospace industry
• Develop and implement legal risk mitigation strategies
• Translate complex legal requirements into actionable operational plans
• Foster a culture of ethics and integrity throughout the organization
• Collaborative work style with ability to build relationships across departments

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
• Active bar membership in relevant jurisdiction(s)
• Minimum of 6+ years of relevant legal experience, preferably at a law firm or in-house at another defense or aerospace company
• Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and complex legal projects
• Exceptional communication skills, with ability to translate complex legal concepts for non-legal audiences

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in multiple legal disciplines including contract law, corporate governance, labor and employment law, corporate and securities law, real estate, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance
• Experience advising on capital markets transactions and mergers & acquisitions (M&A), including securities offerings, debt financings, public and private acquisitions, joint ventures, and corporate restructurings
• Comprehensive knowledge of aerospace industry laws, including export control, FAR/DFARs, space law and regulations
• Demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel relationships
• Strong financial acumen for managing legal expenses while ensuring quality execution
• Experience establishing compliance programs and conducting risk assessments
• Experience advising boards of directors and executive committees

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic thinking with ability to anticipate emerging legal issues
• Excellent judgment and problem-solving abilities
• Strong leadership capabilities and team management experience
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines
• Unwavering commitment to ethical standards and professional responsibility
• Proactive approach to legal matters with business-oriented solutions
• Collaborative work style with ability to build relationships across departments

Compensation

Pay Range: $158,189.00 - $217,508.75

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.

We offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space. We will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.