Chief Counsel

Overview

S&ME is hiring a Chief Counsel to serve on our Executive Leadership Team, based in our Raleigh, NC office. 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.

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

• 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

• Ownership & Financial Perks
• 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

• Work-Life Balance & Career Development
• 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.