The Aerospace Corporation is an independent nonprofit organization that operates a federally funded research and development center dedicated to the space enterprise. Its teams provide objective technical analysis, engineering support, and strategic assessments for government, civil, and commercial customers. Work at The Aerospace Corporation spans space cybersecurity, satellite-system resilience, space safety, environmental satellite programs supported by agencies such as NOAA and NASA, orbital debris mitigation, and technologies that advance national space capabilities. The organization brings together expertise across aerospace, defense, consulting, and related technical fields, supporting employees working on complex challenges shaping the future of space.
Deputy General Counsel — The Aerospace Corporation, Chantilly, VA
Lead legal operations for The Aerospace Corporation, a federally funded space research and development center, while advising executives on contracts, compliance, governance, litigation, and risk.
United States
California
Virginia$248,000 – $372,000 / year
On-siteFull-timeSeniorLeadEnglish RequiredGeneral CounselDescription
- Advise the organization on legal, regulatory, and compliance matters
- Partner with senior leaders on business priorities and mission support
- Help the General Counsel build and maintain legal systems and procedures
- Direct daily legal operations and oversee a team of legal professionals
- Manage legal support across transactions, governance, compliance, employment, contracts, finance, technology, and litigation
- Evaluate operational and engagement risks, including potential liabilities
- Select and oversee outside counsel to deliver effective, cost-conscious legal services
- Lead team mentoring, performance support, and professional development
- Develop and administer the Office of General Counsel’s operating budget
- Represent the Office of General Counsel on designated internal committees
- Promote regulatory compliance and organization-wide risk reduction
Requirements
- Juris Doctor degree from a highly regarded accredited law school and a strong academic record
- At least 10 years of legal practice in government, an in-house role, or private practice
- Active bar membership in good standing in at least one state, preferably California or Virginia
- TS/SCI clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain required clearances; U.S. citizenship is required
- Demonstrated experience leading and managing a legal team or office
- Professional experience working with government agencies
- Experience advising on business transactions, including federal contracts, federal funding, FAR, DFARS, and ITAR matters
- Knowledge of laws and regulations governing different types of federal contracts
- Experience with, or willingness to build expertise in, artificial intelligence, data privacy, and cybersecurity
- Experience overseeing litigation matters
- Ability to travel approximately 20% of the time
- Experience with an FFRDC or comparable organization is preferred
- Experience implementing legal operations processes and technology is preferred
- Familiarity with nonprofit organizations is preferred
- Experience in fiscal and contract administration, employment and labor law including union negotiations, and intellectual property and technology transfer is preferred
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical coverage and wellness offerings
- Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation
- Standard and alternative schedules with telework options
- 401(k) plan with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on service, plus matching contributions; immediate eligibility and vesting upon hire
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable compensation for exceptional performance
- Relocation support
- Professional development and career advancement programs
- Education assistance
- Inclusive workplace centered on collaboration, flexibility, and respect