Government Contracts Associate (Aerospace, Defense & Next-Generation Energy)

DLA Piper•Washington, DC

3d•$225,000 - $260,000•Hybrid

About The Position

DLA Piper is, at its core, bold, exceptional, collaborative and supportive. Our people are the backbone, heart and soul of our firm. Wherever you are in your professional journey, DLA Piper is a place you can engage in meaningful work and grow your career. Let’s see what we can achieve. Together. Summary We are looking for an associate to join a growing practice focused on clients in the Aerospace, Defense, and Next-Generation Energy sectors. The ideal candidate will have a transactional background and experience drafting and negotiating complex contracts, licenses, and developmental agreements. While a large part of this role will support transactional matters, candidates should also have experience and/or interest in disputes, investigations, and counseling work. The ideal candidate would have 1-3 years of direct and applicable experience in an AmLaw 100 firm. Prior experience in the Aerospace, Defense, or Next-Generation Energy sectors is encouraged. Prior non-legal experience in a client advisory role is also encouraged.

Requirements

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
Attention to detail.
Good business and professional judgment.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
Conceptual thinking.
Persuasive communication.
Management skills.
JD
Minimum GPA of 3.5
Degree from an accredited law school
Admitted to the DC Bar or ability to gain admission
1 yea of relevant experience in the Aerospace, Defense, and Next-Generation Energy sectors
Direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm and experience.
Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties
Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner
Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product
Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required
Foster positive work relationships
Comply with all firm policies and practices
Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as (a) working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing; (b) participating in digital/virtual conference calls; (c) participating in meetings as needed
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment
Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned

Responsibilities

Legal Research: Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support case/transaction preparation and strategy.
Legal Writing: Draft well-written, error free, and reasoned legal documents, including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence.
Case/Transaction Assistance and Management: Assist/Manage a variety of complex cases/transactions from inception to resolution including preparing for trials, negotiations, settlements, closings, and other legal activities while continuously demonstrating strong judgement.
Internal/External Client Interaction: Build, maintain, and cultivate strong internal and external client relationships by providing support, regular updates, advice, and addressing concerns promptly and with the utmost professionalism.
Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other lawyers and business professionals to support and develop innovative case/transaction strategies to achieve the most favorable outcomes for internal and external clients.
Attend, support, and participate in high-level legal activities including court hearings, depositions, negotiations, trials, etc.
Compliance: Ensure rigorous compliance with legal standards and regulations, staying abreast of changes in law and legal precedents.
Professional Development: Proactively seek out and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your legal knowledge, practice technology, management, and leadership skills.
Firm Citizenship and Community Involvement: Engage in and contribute to; firm programs and initiatives; civic and professional organizations; pro bono work by providing legal assistance to underserved and underrepresented communities.