Description:

Smith is the leading independent distributor of electronic components globally, supporting mission-critical supply chains across aerospace, defense, and advanced technology industries.

As a trusted partner to government and defense organizations, we operate at the intersection of global commerce, regulatory complexity, and national security. We are seeking a Corporate Attorney with deep experience in aerospace and defense contracting to play a high-impact role advising leadership, shaping compliance strategy, and supporting complex global transactions.

This role serves as a key legal advisor on government contracting, defense-related sales/procurement and export controls. You will partner cross-functionally with business, compliance, and supply chain teams to enable growth while managing regulatory risk in a dynamic, global environment.

Responsibilities:
As a Defense Logistics Agency qualified supplier among more than a dozen other certifications and accreditations, you will be contributing to the team that ensures we exceed industry standards and customer expectations.

You will serve as a strategic legal partner on government and defense contracting matters.

Advise on FAR/DFARS compliance, subcontracting, and sales strategy
Lead the drafting, review, and negotiation of complex government and commercial agreements
Interpret and provide guidance on ITAR, export controls, rated orders and DoD regulations
Identify and proactively mitigate legal and compliance risks impacting business operations
Develop and enhance scalable compliance frameworks and policies
Partner with leadership to support growth initiatives within aerospace and defense sectors
Working with the Sales organization you will draft, review and negotiate purchasing, sales and other government and commercial agreements, with focus on military and defense related procurements
Deliver training and thought leadership on regulatory requirements to internal stakeholders
Conduct legal research on regulatory requirements, government contracts and subcontracts
Develop and implement risk mitigation and compliance framework for the military and defense group

Qualifications:

J.D. from an accredited law school and active bar membership. Eligible for licensure as in-house counsel in Texas
7+ years of relevant experience in government contracts, aerospace & defense, or export controls
Strong working knowledge of ITAR, DPAS, FAR, DFARS, and U.S. export regulations
Experience advising business stakeholders in a fast-paced, commercial environment preferred
Proven ability to balance legal risk with business objectives
Ability to interact with multiple levels in an organization and in multiple jurisdictions
Ability to work effectively with global legal and compliance teams, with an international mind-set