Commercial Counsel, Hardware

Anthropic•San Francisco, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Anthropic is seeking a Commercial Counsel, Hardware to support its growing AI development. This role will focus on the legal aspects of hardware procurement, technology deals, and partnerships. The ideal candidate will be responsible for negotiating a high volume of deals for hardware, components, software, and emerging technology. They will also lead complex technology, data, and partnership agreements, acting as a key legal and risk advisor to technical and business leaders. The role involves clearing low-risk transactions efficiently, identifying high-risk deals, and developing scalable legal solutions. Collaboration with Procurement, Finance, and other Legal teams (privacy, IP, trade) is essential. Additionally, the counsel will support partnerships with major tech companies, universities, and media organizations, providing broad business exposure.

Requirements

JD and active membership in at least one U.S. state bar (California preferred).
Hands-on experience buying hardware and firmware, components, and software in high volume, fast-paced environments.
Deep experience leading complex deals, such as technology or data licensing, joint development, or supply partnerships.
Working knowledge of international supply chains and their contractual implications (lead times, single-source risk, warranties, country of origin, higher risk jurisdictions).
Working knowledge of trade and regulatory compliance for hardware, including export controls, sanctions, tariffs, and customs.
Clear, plain communication skills to translate legal risk into actionable decisions for scientists, engineers, and operators.
A low-ego, "doer" attitude and a willingness to take on work outside of core practice areas.
Intense curiosity about AI and emerging hardware.
Commitment to responsible AI development.

Nice To Haves

At least 8 years of legal experience in hardware or a closely related technical space, with the judgment to run risk assessments and deals independently from day one.
In-house experience at a hardware-intensive technology company (e.g., electronics, industrial automation, complex devices) during a period of rapid scaling.
Experience supporting product or engineering teams as dedicated counsel.
Experience with facilities or on-site vendor services, including insurance and safety matters.
An engineering, product, or other technical background.
Experience using AI tools to expedite legal work.

Responsibilities

Negotiate and close a high volume of agreements for hardware and components, including review of embedded firmware and companion software licenses.
Structure and negotiate complex technology, data, and partnership agreements.
Track legal and regulatory changes affecting hardware products and components (e.g., product safety rules, restrictions on foreign-made components) and advise on their implications.
Identify trade, export control, sanctions, and supply chain concerns in cross-border sourcing and collaborate with national security and compliance teams to resolve them.
Build and maintain self-serve guidance, templates, and AI-assisted review tools for routine purchases.
Manage outside counsel for specialist questions and overflow volume.
Cover other technology or hardware transactions within the Legal team as needed.