Corporate Counsel, Defense & Aerospace San Luis Obispo,...

San Luis Obispo, California, United StatesJoin us at Zone 5 Technologies where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive pioneering advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Based in the vibrant city of San Luis Obispo CA, we're seeking talented individuals to join and contribute to our growing team.We thrive on pushing boundaries and inventing solutions to real-world challenges. Join a community of forward-thinkers who collaborate to create impactful products with a global reach. Our team, consisting of engineers and professionals, is prepared to overcome new frontiers and deliver innovative solutions in the field of unmanned aircraft systems.We are seeking an experienced Corporate Counsel to serve as our first and only in-house legal leader as we scale operations and navigate the complexities of the defense industry and government contracting. Foundational role that will establish and lead our legal function, working directly with executive leadership to support existing operations and rapid growth while ensuring legal and risk management excellence, as well as regulatory compliance across all business activities.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement comprehensive legal strategy aligned with business objectives and growth plansServe as primary legal advisor to the CEO and executive teamBuild and scale the legal function from the ground up, establishing processes, policies, and frameworksManage or assist in management of outside counsel relationships (i.e., regulatory and corporate counsel) and legal budgets across multiple practice areasContracts & Commercial TransactionsLead negotiation of complex government contracts, including prime and subcontractor agreementsOversee vendor agreements, licensing deals, technology transfer arrangements, and NDAsReview facility and operating leasesReview relevant equipment financing documents, as well as any third-party lender and banking agreementsSupport business development, M&A activities, and any due diligence, as neededRegulatory & ComplianceWhile the position does not require expert-level subject matter expertise, General Counsel should be expected to help navigate complex federal regulations with the assistance of outside regulatory counsel including ITAR, EAR, FAR, DFARS, DCAA, DOL regulations, and other defense-related compliance requirementsDevelop and maintain robust export control and security clearance programsEnsure compliance with industry standards and certifications (FAA & DoD requirements)Maintain expertise in California state law and regulatory requirements, including employment lawOversee data protection, cybersecurity compliance, and information security legal requirements in partnership with IT teamReview and enhance corporate governance frameworkDevelop enterprise-wide risk management and compliance programsContinuously analyze and assess the organization's largest legal risk factors and mitigation strategiesHandle employment law matters and HR legal supportManage intellectual property portfolio strategy and protectionOversee litigation management and dispute resolutionGrowth SupportAid senior management in the expansion of the company’s operating capabilities, including establishment of production facilities in new states and internationallyNavigate domestic and international expansion legal requirements and cross-border transactionsDevelop scalable legal processes to support rapid organizational growthRequired QualificationsEducation & ExperienceJuris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar (preferably California)5+ years in senior legal roles with direct executive team interactionExperience as sole or lead legal counsel preferredComfort in all facets of government contracting requiredDefense industry experience expectedIndustry ExpertiseKnowledge of defense industry standards, certifications, and regulatory frameworkGovernment contracting expertise as drafting and commenting on legal agreements is critical to the roleGeneral familiarity with ITAR and export control regulations, as well as security clearance processes and requirementsTechnical SkillsStrong contract negotiation and drafting capabilitiesExpert-level legal agreement drafting and finalization across all business functionsCorporate governance experienceStrong familiarity with California employment law, corporate law, and regulatory environmentHR legal support experienceIntellectual property strategy and managementInternational business law and cross-border transactionsPreferred QualificationsBig Law firm background with Defense focus and in-house Defense ContractorPrevious experience as General Counsel or Deputy General Counsel preferredExperience with high-growth technology companiesGovernment contracting or procurement experiencePersonal AttributesStrategic mindset with ability to balance legal risk with business objectivesStrong communication skills to clearly explain and simplify complex legal concepts for diverse audiencesCollaborative leadership style with experience building and leading teamsHigh integrity and judgment with impeccable ethical standardsAdaptability and resilience thriving in fast-paced, evolving environmentsPay range for this role$225,000 - $275,000 USDWhat's in it for you:Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.401k with company-match4 weeks of paid time off each year12 annual company holidaysWhy Join Zone 5 Technologies?Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify.Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) statements are included in compliance with applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17