Corporate Counsel (Remote)

Overview

A full-service contract research organization (CRO) specializing in clinical research services for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries is seeking a Corporate Counsel. The organization has a strong foundation in statistical and data management and operates globally with headquarters in Markham, Ontario, Canada, and offices in the USA, China, Taiwan, and Europe. This role is based in Bridgewater, New Jersey, USA, or can be performed remotely within the USA according to the employer's Work from Home policy.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate, draft, and review a variety of commercial agreements including customer, vendor, license, partnership, confidentiality, work orders, and data protection agreements.
• Support complex and strategic commercial transactions such as partnerships and technology integrations.
• Ensure compliance of commercial agreements with applicable laws, policies, rules, and regulations by collaborating with internal and external experts.
• Advise business teams on contractual obligations, risk management, and compliance related to commercial transactions.
• Lead negotiations professionally to secure favorable terms while maintaining strong business relationships.
• Work cross-functionally with sales, compliance, risk management, procurement, finance, and operations to support business objectives.
• Provide legal support throughout the contract lifecycle including amendments, renewals, and dispute resolution.
• Stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices affecting commercial transactions.
• Understand business unit objectives and profitability drivers.
• Identify potential legal risks and impacts related to existing businesses, new ventures, and products.
• Assist in drafting and updating corporate policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active law license in good standing in any U.S. state.
• Experience working within a Contract Research Organization (CRO), clinical research sponsor, or in-house with a clinical research vendor.
• Minimum of 2-4 years of experience negotiating service agreements and work orders with clients and vendors.
• Proven ability to advise multiple departments on business and contractual matters.
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills for complex commercial agreements.
• Highly autonomous, self-motivated, with sound judgment and ability to manage multiple priorities urgently.
• Understanding of business strategy and basic financial considerations.
• Knowledge of business-to-business agreements, risk assessment, and operational impacts.
• Ability to quickly evaluate complex legal and regulatory issues and recommend sound courses of action.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to influence and advise at all organizational levels.
• Professional demeanor and respectful communication with clients, partners, vendors, and colleagues.
• Experience assisting Quality Assurance in drafting and revising corporate policies with a legal perspective.

Compensation & Benefits

• Estimated salary range: $120,000 - $150,000 annually.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life and AD&D insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Tuition reimbursement and fitness reimbursement programs.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• 401(k) retirement/pension plan.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave.
• Opportunity to earn a performance-based bonus.

Location

• Position available onsite in Bridgewater, New Jersey, USA, or remotely from a home-based office anywhere in the USA in accordance with the employer's Work from Home policy.