Chief Counsel

Chief Counsel

Requisition Number:

This role provides enterprise-level legal leadership, guiding sound decision‑making, strengthening risk management practices, and supporting the company's strategic objectives. This opportunity is well suited for a senior attorney who blends legal expertise with business judgment, communicates effectively with executives, and thrives in a fast‑paced professional services environment.

As Chief Counsel, you will function as the company's primary legal advisor and a key partner to senior leadership and operational teams. You will influence business strategy, elevate contracting practices, and proactively manage legal exposure across the organization. Core responsibilities include:

• Contract Management: Review, draft, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, leases, and service agreements. Provide legal approval and guidance to ensure favorable terms and risk mitigation.
• Legal Advisory: Offer strategic legal advice to management and internal teams. Conduct legal research and provide opinions on various issues affecting operations, contracts, and projects.
• Risk & Compliance: Assess commercial and legal risk in contracts and operational decisions. Help maintain quality standards, ensure compliance with safety guidelines, and contribute to internal governance practices.
• Dispute Management: Manage litigation and outside counsel relationships. Oversee the resolution of legal disputes and professional liability claims, including coordination with insurers.
• Insurance &
  
  Risk Management:
  
  Lead insurance coverage acquisition, claim reporting, and internal procedures to support professional liability prevention and resolution.
• Client Coaching & Negotiations: Coach internal teams on prioritizing contract changes and conducting complex negotiations. Assist in developing negotiation strategies and business solutions.
• Cross‑functional Communication: Translate complex legal language into clear guidance for non‑legal stakeholders. Support internal policy development and communicate legal strategy effectively across departments.

• Juris Doctorate (JD) required
• Must be licensed to practice law and eligible for a North Carolina in‑house license (Rule 712)
• 10+ years of relevant legal experience in Professional Services, ideally with a focus on contract law, risk management, insurance, and working in or with engineering/consulting firms

• Strong drafting and negotiation skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Proven ability to assess and prioritize legal risks
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and coaching skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Familiarity with litigation, claims management, and insurance coordination

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long‑term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee‑owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people‑focused culture that invests in your success.

We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
• Pet Insurance for your furry family members

• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
• Term Life & Long‑Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026

• Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
• Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project‑based roles

If you're passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, we'd love to hear from you!

This full‑time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered.
Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk‑ins are accepted.