Associate General Counsel

About the role

The Weitz Company is seeking a dedicated Associate General Counsel to join our legal team in Des Moines, Iowa. This full-time position offers an to support our diverse construction and real estate operations through effective legal guidance. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in corporate law, with a focus on construction law, contracts, and compliance, to help navigate the complexities of our industry.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Provide legal counsel on a wide range of matters related to construction projects, including contract negotiation, risk management, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Draft, review, and negotiate various types of contracts, including construction agreements, subcontractor agreements, and procurement contracts, ensuring that all terms protect the interests of The Weitz Company.
• Collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders to identify and mitigate potential legal risks associated with construction projects.
• Advise on labor and employment issues, including compliance with labor laws, employee relations, and workplace safety regulations.
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on relevant laws and regulations impacting the construction industry to provide informed guidance to the organization.
• Represent The Weitz Company in administrative proceedings and negotiations, as well as in disputes with contractors, subcontractors, and other third parties.
• Assist in the development and implementation of company policies and procedures to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Provide training and support to internal teams on legal best practices, contract management, and risk assessment.
• Work closely with external legal counsel as needed, managing relationships and overseeing the work of outside attorneys to ensure alignment with company objectives.
• Participate in strategic planning sessions to align legal strategies with the company's business goals and objectives.
• Support mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions by conducting due diligence and drafting necessary documentation.
• Foster a culture of compliance and ethical behavior throughout the organization by promoting awareness and understanding of legal obligations.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active bar membership in Iowa or eligibility to obtain admission.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a legal role, preferably within the construction industry or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of construction law, contract law, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven experience in negotiating and drafting complex contracts, with a keen eye for detail and risk assessment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and provide sound legal advice.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team, managing multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.

Nice to have

• Experience with litigation or dispute resolution in the construction sector.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations and compliance issues related to construction projects.
• Previous in-house counsel experience within a construction or real estate company.
• Knowledge of labor relations and employment law as it pertains to the construction industry.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and contract management software.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and legal research databases (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Familiarity with project management tools and software relevant to legal operations.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Des Moines, Iowa, and may require occasional travel to project sites or meetings.
• The Weitz Company values diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
• Candidates should be prepared to provide references and undergo a background check as part of the hiring process.
• Interested applicants can apply through the company's career portal at [The Weitz Company Careers](https://theweitzcompany.bamboohr.com/careers/2414).

Join The Weitz Company as an Associate General Counsel and contribute to our mission of delivering exceptional construction services while ensuring legal compliance and risk management. Your expertise will play a crucial role in shaping our legal strategies and supporting our continued success in the industry.