Description:
Job Summary:We are seeking a Legal Counsel with experience in U.S. Government contracting—preferably within the aerospace or defense industry—to join the legal team at GKN Aerospace Engines. This role supports a broad range of U.S.-focused contractual, regulatory, and compliance matters.
You will work closely with Senior Legal Counsel on a day-to-day basis and report to the Head of Legal. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career attorney to deepen expertise in federal contracting and aerospace/defense regulations, while gaining exposure to broader commercial legal matters over time.
Job Responsibilities:
Primary Responsibilities:
- Support the review, drafting, and negotiation of U.S. Government contracts and subcontracts, including agreements governed by FAR and DFARS
- Assist with compliance related to federal procurement regulations, export controls, and related requirements
- Support contract flow-down analysis and monitor compliance with contractual obligations
- Interpret and advise internal stakeholders on contractual and regulatory requirements
- Partner with Senior Legal Counsel to provide practical, business-oriented legal guidance to engineering, procurement, and operations teams
- Assist in resolving contractual issues that arise during contract performance
- Participate in internal reviews related to risk management, compliance, and corporate governance
Expanded Scope (as role develops):
- Support commercial contracting activities (e.g., NDAs, teaming agreements, supplier agreements)
- Assist in developing internal legal processes, templates, and training materials
- Support dispute avoidance efforts and early identification of legal risks
- Gain exposure to commercial legal matters (prior experience is a plus, but not required)
Job Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree and active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction
- 2–5 years of experience supporting U.S. Government contracts, ideally in aerospace, defense, or a highly regulated industry
- Working knowledge of U.S. government contracting regulations, including FAR and DFARS
- Experience advising on complex legal and compliance issues
Preferred Qualifications:
- Practical, solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently while knowing when to escalate issues
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment
- Proven ability to build trusted relationships and collaborate effectively across functions
- Strong judgment, integrity, and the confidence to deliver difficult messages when needed
- Demonstrated ability to think creatively and deliver business-focused legal solutions
- Adaptable and comfortable working in a dynamic, evolving environment
- Interest in how technology is shaping the aerospace and defense industry
- In-house legal experience within a manufacturing or aerospace organization strongly preferred
- Alignment with GKN Aerospace's core values
Travel Requirements:
Up to 10% domestic and international travel
We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?
