Commercial Contracts Counsel

Location: Los Angeles, CA

About the role

A rapidly growing aerospace and defense technology company is seeking an experienced Commercial Contracts Counsel to support its procurement, supply chain, and government contracting operations. This role will serve as a key business partner to internal stakeholders, leading complex subcontracting and commercial contracting matters while helping build scalable legal and compliance processes in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, negotiate, and manage a high volume of contracts, including subcontracts, master service agreements, statements of work, purchase orders, NDAs, supply agreements, technical services agreements, and teaming agreements.
• Ensure prime contract obligations are appropriately flowed down to suppliers and subcontractors, including required certifications, compliance requirements, and risk provisions.
• Advise on FAR, DFARS, OTA, and other government contracting requirements affecting supplier relationships and subcontract administration.
• Partner closely with procurement, supply chain, program management, engineering, and finance teams to support business objectives and accelerate deal execution.
• Develop practical contracting tools, templates, playbooks, and self-service resources that enable efficient business operations.
• Manage representations, certifications, and compliance obligations associated with government and commercial contracting activities.
• Collaborate with trade compliance teams on export controls, sanctions regulations, customs matters, and sourcing restrictions, including ITAR and EAR requirements.
• Provide pragmatic, business-focused legal guidance and risk assessments to leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Support supplier dispute resolution and contract enforcement matters.
• Help establish and improve legal processes, procedures, and operational best practices as the organization continues to scale.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar.
• 5+ years of relevant legal experience with a strong focus on commercial contracting, subcontracts, procurement, supply chain, or government contracts.
• Deep knowledge of FAR/DFARS flowdowns, government contracting compliance requirements, and supplier-related risk management.
• Demonstrated success negotiating and closing complex commercial agreements in a high-volume environment.
• Exceptional contract drafting, negotiation, and issue-spotting skills.
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving, and highly technical business environment.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and stakeholder-management abilities.
• Interest in aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing, or emerging technologies is highly desirable.

Pay

$170,000–$225,000

Benefits

• Equity participation opportunity.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Paid parental leave and generous paid time off.
• Company-sponsored team events, office perks, and additional employee benefits.