Corporate Counsel

S&ME is a growing 100% employee-owned, civil engineering and consulting firm seeking an experienced attorney to join our legal team as Corporate Counsel. In this role, you will work closely with executive leadership, project managers, and operational teams to support the daily legal needs of the business across numerous functions including contracts, regulatory compliance, professional and state licensing, and general corporate matters such as human resources, procurement, and risk management.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of agreements, including client contracts, professional services agreements, consultant agreements, vendor contracts, NDAs, and project-related contracts.
• Advise internal stakeholders on risk allocation, indemnification, insurance requirements, limitation of liability provisions, and dispute resolution terms.
• Manage contract disputes, defaults, and enforcement issues.
• Develop contract templates, playbooks, and best practices to improve efficiency and consistency.
• Advise on corporate governance and compliance matters and monitor and ensure regulatory compliance across all business operations.
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on legislation and case laws relevant to the business.
• Collaborate with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Develop and implement internal policies and procedures to manage company risk.
• Provide training and workshops on legal issues for staff.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to leaders across the organization.
• Translate complex legal issues into practical, business-focused advice.
• Support legal compliance, risk management, policy development, and employee training initiatives.
• Assist with compliance programs, internal investigations, and regulatory matters.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active North Carolina law license in good standing (or ability to obtain admission in North Carolina).
• 3 to 5 years of relevant legal experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Demonstrated analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and communicate legal concepts and recommendations.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn and develop professionally.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with engineering, construction, infrastructure, professional services, or consulting industries.
• Experience drafting and negotiating commercial agreements.
• Familiarity with mediation, litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution.
• Experience with contract lifecycle management (CLM) systems or legal technology tools.

About the Role

This is a great opportunity for an attorney who enjoys solving problems, managing risk, negotiating contracts, and influencing business decisions in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. You will have direct access to executive leadership and key business decision-makers, with broad exposure to contracts, risk management, claims, and strategic business initiatives. The role offers the chance to help shape major infrastructure and development projects within a collaborative culture where legal is viewed as a trusted business partner.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program - $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums
• Pet Insurance
• Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a minimum 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs
• Credential Incentive Program - get rewarded for advancing your skills
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program
• Company Vehicle & Fuel Card - for project-based roles
• $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses