Legal Counsel, Air Defense & Counter Intrusion

Overview

A defense technology organization is seeking a Legal Counsel to support its Air Defense and Counter Intrusion business lines within the Frontier Systems Division. This role is based in Washington, DC or Costa Mesa, CA and focuses on the full spectrum of U.S. government contracts. The position involves providing legal oversight for proposals and procurement, advising on data rights and contract structures, and developing legal and business strategies. The Legal Counsel will collaborate closely with customers, outside counsel, and internal business partners to support business development and legal operations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a key member of a small, dynamic legal team.
• Drive customer growth by executing new government contracts and expanding existing ones.
• Utilize expertise in federal procurement law to assist Business Development, Proposal, and Engineering teams in capturing and growing contracts.
• Develop strategies for new business opportunities.
• Manage relationships with government procurement office representatives to foster high-trust professional connections.
• Provide legal counsel and manage the entire acquisitions lifecycle, including evaluating proposals, monitoring contracts, leading negotiations, resolving performance issues, identifying risks, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Handle a broad range of legal matters including license and services agreements, bid protests, litigation, intellectual property, compliance, and employment issues.
• Represent the legal team in interactions with outside counsel, vendors, engineers, executives, customers, and regulators.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of experience working on U.S. government contracts, preferably in a law firm or in-house at a government contractor. More senior candidates may be considered with role adjustments.
• Strong understanding of government procurement processes, including contract vehicles and types, non-traditional contracts, CAS coverage, software acquisition methods, and data rights.
• Ability to independently manage multiple projects from start to finish.
• Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.
• Quick learner capable of contributing to various legal areas such as intellectual property, litigation, financing, securities, compliance, and employment law.
• Licensed to practice law in California or Washington, DC.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to access requirements for U.S. export-controlled information or facilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Pre-law school professional experience.
• Combination of law firm and in-house or government experience.
• Experience working directly with government entities.
• Background or interest in engineering, software, or technology sectors.
• Strong interest in defense acquisition law and policy with ideas for improvement.
• Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced, evolving company.
• Current possession of, and ability to maintain, an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $191,000 to $253,000 USD (base salary only; actual offer may vary based on experience, education, skills, and business needs).
• Highly competitive equity grants included in most full-time offers.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision plans with minimal or no cost for U.S. employees.
• Life and disability insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off including a holiday break in December, caregiver and wellness leave.
• Family planning and parenting support including fertility treatments, adoption, and gestational carrier coverage.
• Access to 24/7 mental health resources, therapy, life coaching, and additional work-life services.
• Annual reimbursement for professional development.
• Company-funded commuter benefits based on location.
• Relocation assistance available depending on eligibility.
• Retirement savings plans including traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax options for U.S. employees.

Location

• Washington, DC or Costa Mesa, CA

Note: Candidates must be vigilant against recruitment scams. Legitimate recruitment communications will never request payment or sensitive financial information. Official recruiter emails will come from the organization's domain or clearly identified agency partners. Suspicious communications should be reported immediately.