Construction Counsel

My client, a pipe manufacturing company with a national footprint, serving infrastructure needs across North America, is growing their legal department. This company specializes in drainage, sanitary, pressure, and trench-less pipe solutions, with multiple manufacturing locations and a commitment to innovation and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Contract Management & Negotiation

  • Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts, subcontracts, purchase agreements, and manufacturing-related documents.
  • Ensure contracts align with business objectives and mitigate legal and financial risks.
  • Develop and maintain standard contract templates and clauses for consistency and compliance.

• Lien Law & Claims

  • Advise on Texas lien law compliance, including preparation and filing of lien notices, affidavits, releases, and enforcement actions.
  • Manage lien-related disputes and coordinate with project teams to ensure timely and accurate documentation.

• Dispute Resolution

  • Lead or support resolution of disputes involving back charges, delay claims, warranty issues, and quality-related matters.
  • Represent the company in mediation, arbitration, and litigation proceedings.
  • Collaborate with outside counsel and manage litigation strategy and budgets.

• Risk Management

  • Provide proactive legal guidance on project execution, contract performance, and regulatory compliance.
  • Identify potential legal risks and recommend mitigation strategies across operations and project management.
  • Review insurance requirements and coverage for construction projects.

• Regulatory & Compliance

  • Monitor changes in construction law, manufacturing regulations, and employment law that impact operations.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including OSHA, environmental regulations, and labor standards.

• Training & Internal Support

  • Conduct training sessions for project managers, plant managers, and procurement teams on legal topics such as contract risk, lien law, and dispute prevention.
  • Serve as a legal advisor to internal departments including finance, HR, and safety.

• Policy Development

  • Assist in developing and updating internal policies and procedures to reduce legal exposure and improve operational efficiency.
  • Support the implementation of ethical business practices and corporate governance standards.

• Documentation & Recordkeeping

  • Maintain organized records of contracts, legal correspondence, and dispute resolutions.
  • Ensure confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive legal documents.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in Texas.
• Minimum 5 years of legal experience in construction, manufacturing, or industrial projects.
• Strong knowledge of Texas OR California lien law and construction statutes.
• Expertise in contract negotiation, dispute resolution, and back charge management.
• Excellent communication, drafting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.