Job Summary
The Sr. Counsel (Commercial) is responsible for reviewing client contracts; reviewing changes to the operating companies’ standard subcontract and vendor contracts; ensuring appropriate terms and conditions are negotiated and incorporated into all agreements; interfacing with Operating Units to provide day-to day project execution/legal advice and counsel in multiple areas of the law, including but not limited to, construction, commercial, business, employment and insurance; managing commercial disputes; providing training to Company personnel on contract review and commercial management; and other assignments, as necessary.
Weekly Hybrid Schedule: This position will work 4 days in the Houston office with the option to work 1 day remotely.
Essential Functions- Actively support the Company’s commitment to safety and its “Core Values.”
- Represent the Company at all times with high moral standards while adhering to the Company’s “Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.”
- Understand, negotiate and modify construction agreements, particularly EPC contracts; ensure appropriate terms and conditions, risk factors and insurance requirements are within Company policies and standards.
- Work closely with OU executives, project management and other personnel to ensure proper understanding of contract provisions and optimum field management of projects.
- Ensure managers are properly educated, trained and adhere to established Delegation of Authority and Contract Review and Proposal Policy guidelines.
- Assist executives and project management teams with commercial management of projects, including communicating and documenting changes and claims to be submitted in accordance with contract terms.
- Act as liaison between internal and external clients, subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers on contract issues.
- Ensure compliance with Company subcontractor approval process, including review/approve deviations from the operating company’s standard subcontract and vendor terms.
- Work closely with procurement and operations to ensure proper flow-down terms are incorporated into subcontracts.
- Advise internal clients on updates in federal or state laws or regulations affecting engineering and construction industry, etc.
- Under the supervision of the Deputy General Counsel, work with outside counsel on litigation matters, including reviewing, analyzing and modifying pleadings, law and motions. Strategize with outside counsel to determine the best and most cost-effective ways to litigate the given case. Attend hearings, mediations and arbitrations as Company representative. Prepare litigation reports on assigned cases.
- Assist with investigations and gather information for issues relating to Compliance, Human Resources and Safety or financial audits.
- Maintain understanding of Company’s insurance programs to ensure appropriate issues addressed in contracts and subcontracts, as well as the effect of those policies on assigned cases and projects.
- Perform additional responsibilities, as needed or requested.
- Juris Doctorate Degree; Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Construction, Human Resources, Safety, or other related field preferred.
- 10+ years’ legal experience, with an emphasis in Construction industry and contract negotiation and administration or equivalent.
- Experience with federal contracting and/or international contract laws considered a plus.
- License to practice law, in good standing, in any state.
- Ability to work independently, yet part of a Team, including with internal customers and other team members who work in various remote locations.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to gather and weigh facts and information from many sources, draw conclusions and make recommendations to management.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals at all organizational levels, both internally and externally.
- Ability to assess legal and business risk in varying situations and make associated recommendations to minimize overall risk to the Company.
- Strong written and oral communication skills as required to interface with customers and subcontractors.
- Ability to work on/manage multiple priorities simultaneously, work with frequent interruptions and meet established deadlines.
- Travel periodically, as required.
- Proficient computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Legal Research.
Full-time employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, disability benefits, life and AD&D insurance, an employee assistance program (EAP), a 401(k) plan with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), a robust wellness program and adoption assistance. Some employees may also be eligible for paid time off, tuition reimbursement and a performance or safety bonus program.
At Matrix, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. We encourage all whose experience aligns with the listed qualifications to apply and explore joining our organization.
EEO/M/F/Disability/Vets/Affirmative Action Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, marital status, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristic or category.