Position Overview:
The Port Authority seeks a seasoned Commercial Real Estate Attorney with a strong background in contract negotiation and transactional work to join its Legal Division. This role involves advising on high-value real estate transactions, public-private partnerships (P3s), leasing, development agreements, and complex procurement matters tied to the agency’s real estate portfolio.
The successful candidate will work closely with senior attorneys, real estate executives, external stakeholders, and other government entities to support the Port Authority’s mission and ensure legal compliance in major projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Draft, negotiate, and review commercial real estate contracts, including leases, purchase and sale agreements, development and construction agreements, license agreements, and public-private partnership documents.
- Provide legal counsel on complex real estate transactions involving agency-owned properties, transit-oriented developments, and tenant operations at facilities like airports, ports, and transit hubs.
- Analyze legal risks related to contract provisions, insurance, indemnification, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.
- Conduct due diligence on property ownership, environmental issues, title, and land use matters.
- Collaborate with internal departments (real estate, engineering, finance, procurement) and outside counsel to support project execution.
- Advise on contract compliance, amendments, and enforcement of rights under existing agreements.
- Assist with presentations and briefings to senior executives, Port Authority Board, and public stakeholders.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Member in good standing of the New York or New Jersey Bar.
- Minimum 6 years of legal experience, with a strong focus on commercial real estate transactions and contract law.
- Experience negotiating and drafting complex leases, purchase/sale agreements, and real estate development contracts.
- Excellent legal research, writing, and communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail, issue spotting, and risk analysis.
Preferred:
- Experience with large-scale infrastructure or public-sector real estate projects.
- Knowledge of zoning, land use, environmental review (SEQRA/NEPA), and public procurement.
- Familiarity with P3 agreements, concessionaire arrangements, or tenant negotiations at transportation or logistics hubs.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Work Environment:
- Hybrid work environment (subject to agency policies).
- Primary office located at 4 World Trade Center with occasional site visits across NY and NJ facilities.
- Some travel may be required.
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