Business Counsel & Operator

Overview

An early-stage energy infrastructure company focused on developing small and medium-scale battery energy storage and microgrid projects in New York State and the broader Northeast is seeking a full-time hybrid legal and business professional. The role involves leveraging legal expertise and commercial judgment to support business development and execution in a startup environment.

Responsibilities

Legal Counsel and Commercial Work

• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of agreements including commercial, real estate, procurement, vendor, service provider, equipment supply, financing, development-related, NDAs, purchase orders, and engagement letters
• Advise the team on legal risks and commercial tradeoffs appropriate to the company's stage and practical realities
• Manage relationships with outside counsel, utilizing specialist expertise efficiently
• Identify, track, and ensure compliance with applicable legal obligations
• Utilize AI and legal technology tools for contract review, drafting, research, issue spotting, and workflow improvements

Business and Development Work

• Develop working knowledge of energy markets, electrical concepts, and project development mechanics
• Evaluate utility programs, tariffs, incentives, permitting paths, and market rules
• Lead customer and landlord communications
• Support project development and due diligence processes
• Coordinate vendors, consultants, outside counsel, counterparties, and internal teams

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and active bar admission in good standing in New York, or active admission in another U.S. jurisdiction with eligibility and willingness to register promptly as in-house counsel in New York and meet any comparable authorization requirements where legal services are performed
• Minimum of 7 years of legal experience, including significant experience drafting and negotiating commercial agreements directly with counterparties
• In-house legal experience is strongly preferred
• Experience in energy, infrastructure, real estate, construction, project finance, regulated industries, startups, or operating businesses is beneficial but not required
• Proficient and active use of AI and modern tools to enhance legal and business work while applying independent judgment and verification
• Interest in deeply learning the business and performing hands-on work across various company needs

Preferred Working Style

• Practical commercial generalist comfortable with both senior-level and hands-on tasks, such as leading negotiations and managing operational details

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary range: $210,000 to $240,000, commensurate with experience and fit
• Equity upside through periodic grants of phantom equity units, providing ownership-like economic exposure subject to vesting and plan terms
• Benefits include 21 days paid time off plus holidays, a taxable stipend to offset healthcare costs, and covered travel expenses for in-person gatherings for remote employees
• Employment status: Full-time W-2 employee

Location

• Remote eligible with headquarters located in lower Manhattan near Chambers Street
• Work primarily focused on New York State and the Northeast region
• Occasional in-person working sessions expected to build team context

Additional Information

• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and provide in-house legal services in applicable jurisdictions
• Equal opportunity employer committed to non-discrimination based on legally protected characteristics