Legal Counsel

Description:

About the role:
The Legal Counsel at Sierra Space will serve as a key strategic advisor to leadership, managing complex legal matters while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the aerospace industry. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this role requires a seasoned legal professional who can balance risk management with business objectives in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

About You:
Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.

We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic legal counsel to executive leadership on matters affecting company operations, risk management, and business objectives
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial contracts and agreements, including supplier terms and conditions, non-disclosure agreements, licensing agreements, and property leases
• Assist with M&A, capital markets, and other business transactions
• Counsel on employment law matters and support HR initiatives
• Oversee the implementation and effectiveness of the company's policies and procedures
• Manage relationships with and oversee outside counsel
• Develop, implement, and maintain effective compliance programs aligned with aerospace industry regulations
• Advise on corporate governance matters and support Board of Directors meetings
• Monitor and analyze emerging legal and regulatory developments affecting the aerospace industry
• Develop and implement legal risk mitigation strategies
• Translate complex legal requirements into actionable operational plans
• Foster a culture of ethics and integrity throughout the organization

Required Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
• Active bar membership in relevant jurisdiction(s)
• Minimum of 6+ years of relevant legal experience, preferably at a law firm or in-house at another defense or aerospace company
• Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and complex legal projects
• Exceptional communication skills, with ability to translate complex legal concepts for non-legal audiences

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in multiple legal disciplines including contract law, corporate governance, labor and employment law, corporate and securities law, real estate, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance
• Experience advising on capital markets transactions and mergers & acquisitions (M&A), including securities offerings, debt financings, public and private acquisitions, joint ventures, and corporate restructurings, with demonstrated ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and provide strategic legal counsel throughout deal execution
• Comprehensive knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and legal frameworks specific to the aerospace industry, including export control, FAR/DFARs, space law and regulations
• Demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel relationships effectively
• Strong financial acumen for managing legal expenses while ensuring quality execution
• Experience establishing compliance programs and conducting risk assessments
• Experience advising boards of directors and executive committees

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic thinking with ability to anticipate emerging legal issues
• Excellent judgment and problem-solving abilities
• Strong leadership capabilities and team management experience
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines
• Unwavering commitment to ethical standards and professional responsibility
• Proactive approach to legal matters with business-oriented solutions
• Collaborative work style with ability to build relationships across departments

Compensation:
Pay Range:

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