Description:
Position Summary:We are seeking a highly motivated Associate In-House Counsel to join our Risk Management team and support the company's construction operations. This role will focus on owner contract review and negotiation, bond claim management, and dispute resolution/mediation. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in construction law, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with internal stakeholders to manage risk and protect the organization's interests.
Key Responsibilities:
- Contract Management & Negotiation
- Review, draft, and negotiate owner contracts, subcontracts, design build agreements, and amendments with a focus on risk allocation, insurance requirements, indemnification, and payment provisions.
- Collaborate with project management, operations, and leadership teams to ensure contracts align with company objectives and minimize exposure.
- Advise stakeholders on contractual obligations, compliance requirements, and potential legal risks.
- Bond Claims & Surety Support
- Initiate and manage subcontractor bond claims and assist in developing strategies to resolve disputes effectively.
- Partner with surety and insurance agents, claims adjusters, and external counsel as needed to protect company interests.
- Monitor performance and payment bonds, ensuring timely notices and documentation to support claim defense or pursuit.
- Mediation & Dispute Resolution
- Represent the company in mediation, settlement negotiations, and informal dispute resolution efforts with owners, subcontractors, and insurers.
- Provide risk assessments and develop strategies to resolve issues efficiently while avoiding costly litigation.
- Work with project teams to proactively identify potential disputes and provide legal guidance to minimize escalation.
- General Legal Support
- Provide day-to-day legal advice on construction-related matters, claims, insurance coverage, and compliance issues to C-Suite/Risk Management.
- Assist in preparing training materials and educating project teams on legal and risk management best practices.
- Coordinate with outside counsel when litigation or arbitration is unavoidable.
Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
- Member in good standing of at least one U.S. state bar (Florida bar preferred if firm operates there)
- 3-5 years of legal experience; prior exposure to construction law, contracts, or surety/bond claims strongly preferred
- Knowledge of construction contracting, lien laws, and risk allocation principles
- Strong negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain legal concepts to non-legal professionals
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Familiarity with AIA, ConsensusDocs, and custom contract forms
- Understanding of insurance requirements and coverage disputes
- Collaborative, business-minded problem solver who balances legal risk with operational goals
- Experience working with project management, risk, and finance teams in a construction setting
