In-House Associate Legal Counsel

A global, vertically integrated infrastructure contractor is seeking an Associate Legal Counsel to join its in-house legal team. With a diverse portfolio of large-scale public works projects across the United States, the company delivers complex civil infrastructure, including rail systems, water treatment facilities, bridges, and highways. Known for its technical expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to safety and sustainability, the organization operates at the forefront of the construction industry, utilizing both traditional and alternative delivery models such as design-build and public-private partnerships.

The Associate Legal Counsel will play a key role within the legal department, providing strategic and operational support across the company's Western region. Reporting to the U.S. General Counsel, this attorney will advise on contract negotiation and administration, regulatory compliance, risk management, and dispute resolution. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of public infrastructure contracting and the legal frameworks that govern complex construction projects, along with the sound judgment and communication skills necessary to support a dynamic, high-stakes business environment.

Responsibilities:

• Provide legal support to project teams throughout all phases of construction, including procurement, execution, and close-out.
• Draft, review, and negotiate prime contracts with public owners such as Caltrans, LA Metro, OCTA, SANDAG, and other state and local transportation agencies.
• Negotiate and manage subcontracts, purchase orders, joint venture agreements, teaming agreements, and design consultant contracts.
• Advise on risk allocation, indemnity, insurance, liquidated damages, delay provisions, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Assist in the preparation and defense of claims, change orders, and time impact analyses.
• Support dispute resolution processes, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation, in coordination with external counsel.
• Ensure compliance with a broad range of federal, state, and local laws, including the California Public Contract Code, Labor Code (e.g., prevailing wage, skilled workforce), CEQA, FAR, Davis-Bacon Act, and environmental regulations such as the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act.
• Advise on regulatory requirements and engage with key public agencies such as Caltrans, California DIR, State Water Resources Control Board, U.S. EPA, OSHA, FHWA, and local transportation authorities.
• Monitor and interpret legal developments affecting public procurement, infrastructure funding (e.g., IIJA), contractor licensing, and workplace compliance to support proactive risk mitigation and internal policy alignment.
• Support corporate compliance, entity management, and internal policy development.
• Deliver internal training on legal and compliance topics to project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar (or eligibility to register as in-house counsel).
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant legal experience, with a strong preference for candidates with prior experience in the construction or infrastructure sector.
• Deep knowledge of public works procurement, construction law, and regulatory compliance in California.
• Experience with alternative project delivery methods (design-build, CM/GC, P3) is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with Caltrans, local agency, and federal procurement frameworks is preferred.
• Experience with large-scale infrastructure projects (e.g., highways, bridges, rail, water treatment) is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary and annual bonus eligibility.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement program (eligibility after one year of employment).
• Short & long-term disability coverage & life insurance.

If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please apply directly with an updated resume.

All inquiries will be handled with strict confidentiality.