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BAE Systems

Deputy Chief Counsel

BAE Systems See More Job Openings by This EmployerArrow
  • Endicott, NY
November 16, 2024 Attorney

Job Description

BAE Systems' Electronic Systems Sector is seeking a dynamic and experienced lawyer to join our legal team and provide strategic legal support to its Controls and Avionics Solutions (CAS) and Power and Propulsion Systems (PPS) business areas. These business areas embrace an innovation mindset and operate as both cutting edge technology developers and highly dependable product/service providers.

The CAS and PPS business areas have a long-standing legacy of delivering mission and safety critical products and systems for both commercial and military platforms. This includes fly-by-wire flight controls, inceptor systems, FADEC engine controls, autonomous flight solutions, mission systems, electric propulsion, and power management systems. Our products are found on air, ground, and marine vehicles.

As a member of the ES legal team, the selected individual will join a fast-paced and dynamic environment where successful candidates desire to work collaboratively and possess strong people management skills with the ability to be a leader and inspire others at varying levels. The position will interact at the highest levels of the organization with significant autonomy. You will be responsible to provide legal advice and representation involving all matters where the Company, including its subsidiaries and affiliates is, or would be, a party. 

Because this role involves a combination of collaborative/in-person and independent work, it will be a hybrid role, with time being split between working onsite and remotely. This individual will be based in Endicott, NY.

Key Responsibilities:
  • This position supports assigned businesses under direction of the sector Chief Counsel.
  • Provide legal guidance to business areas with a diverse portfolio of products and services spanning both commercial and defense markets.
  • Advise on a broad range of legal matters, including government contracting, commercial agreements, intellectual property, regulatory compliance, export controls, and cybersecurity.
  • Serve as the primary legal partner for the design and development centers in Endicott, NY and Rochester, UK, and our manufacturing sites in Ft. Wayne, Indiana and Guaymas, Mexico.
  • Support global aftermarket operations.
  • Negotiate complex commercial and government contracts, including those with international partners.
  • Advise on the legal implications of emerging technologies, such as aircraft electrification, autonomous flight, artificial intelligence, as well as mission or safety critical systems for both commercial and military applications.
  • Manage legal risks and provide strategic advice in areas such as technology transfers, data privacy and security, intellectual property rights, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including contracts, engineering, business development, compliance, and procurement to support innovation and growth initiatives.
  • Develop and deliver training on key topics such as contract management, compliance, and risk management.
  • Conduct and manage internal investigations.

About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts – defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you’ll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems’ game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere – from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact – for our customers and the communities we serve.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
At BAE Systems, we work hard every day to nurture an inclusive culture where employees are valued and feel like they belong. We are conscious of the need for all employees to see themselves reflected at every level of the company and know that in order to unlock the full potential of our workforce, everyone must feel confident being their best, most sincere self and be equipped to thrive. We provide impactful professional development experiences to our employees and invest in social impact partnerships to uplift communities and drive purposeful change. Here you will find significant opportunities to do meaningful work in an environment intentionally designed to be one where you will learn, grow and belong.

Required Education:
  • Juris Doctorate Degree and admission to practice in the United States, preferably the State Bar NY.
Required Experience:
  • 10+ years of applicable experience in an in-house counsel role.
  • Experience in U.S. Government contracts with in-depth knowledge of the FAR/DFARS and other relevant rules and regulations.
  • Experience in international transactions and contracting, including knowledge of export control regulations, technology transfers, and international trade laws.
  • Experience supporting a business focused on emerging and innovative technologies.
  • Experience advising on regulatory compliance matters, including those associated with the automotive, aerospace and/or defense industries.
  • Strong negotiation and drafting skills, with experience in high-value, complex transactions.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with senior business leaders and cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, global environment.


  • The ideal candidate will have a minimum of ten (10) years or equivalent of prior experience in a law firm government contracts practice, government agency, or federal contracting in-house environment.
  • Experience in the aerospace, automotive, and defense industry.
  • Knowledge of emerging technologies, including aircraft and automotive electrification, autonomous systems, and advanced digital controls.
  • Familiarity with international legal environments.
  • Ability to obtain security clearance is required, and current active Secret clearance is preferred.


Benefits Information
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.

Intern Benefits: Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits, but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance.

Please note: Some benefits may be different for union employees that are governed by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or for positions covered by a wage law called the McNamara-O’Hara Service Contract Act (SCA).



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