Description:

S&ME is hiring a Chief Counsel to serve on our Executive Leadership Team, based in our Raleigh, NC office. This role provides enterprise-level legal leadership, guiding sound decision-making, strengthening risk management practices, and supporting the company's strategic objectives. This opportunity is well suited for a senior attorney who blends legal expertise with business judgment, communicates effectively with executives, and thrives in a fast-paced professional services environment.

About the role:
As Chief Counsel, you will function as the company's primary legal advisor and a key partner to senior leadership and operational teams. You will influence business strategy, elevate contracting practices, and proactively manage legal exposure across the organization. Core responsibilities include:

Contract Management: Review, draft, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, leases, and service agreements. Provide legal approval and guidance to ensure favorable terms and risk mitigation.
Legal Advisory: Offer strategic legal advice to management and internal teams. Conduct legal research and provide opinions on various issues affecting operations, contracts, and projects.
Risk & Compliance: Assess commercial and legal risk in contracts and operational decisions. Help maintain quality standards, ensure compliance with safety guidelines, and contribute to internal governance practices.
Dispute Management: Manage litigation and outside counsel relationships. Oversee the resolution of legal disputes and professional liability claims, including coordination with insurers.
Insurance & Risk Management: Lead insurance coverage acquisition, claim reporting, and internal procedures to support professional liability prevention and resolution.
Client Coaching & Negotiations: Coach internal teams on prioritizing contract changes and conducting complex negotiations. Assist in developing negotiation strategies and business solutions.
Cross-functional Communication: Translate complex legal language into clear guidance for non-legal stakeholders. Support internal policy development and communicate legal strategy effectively across departments.

Experience & Education:

Juris Doctorate (JD) required
Must be licensed to practice law and eligible for a North Carolina in-house license (Rule 712)
10+ years of relevant legal experience in Professional Services, ideally with a focus on contract law, risk management, insurance, and working in or with engineering/consulting firms

Skills & Attributes:

Strong drafting and negotiation skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Proven ability to assess and prioritize legal risks
Strong leadership, interpersonal, and coaching skills
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
Familiarity with litigation, claims management, and insurance coordination

We Are S&ME:
At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee-owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.