Lead Counsel, Ford Energy

Ford • Palo Alto, CA

5h • Hybrid

About The Position

Ford Energy is a newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company dedicated to accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy. Leveraging Ford’s century of manufacturing excellence and world-class battery energy storage systems (BESS) technology, Ford Energy designs, manufactures, and services grid-scale and commercial DC-block battery energy storage systems (BESS). Ford Energy is uniquely positioned to capture the growing demand for reliable, US-built energy storage systems. We are not just building batteries; we are building the infrastructure for the next generation of the American grid.
As we scale the Ford Energy business, we are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Attorney to serve as a primary legal partner. This individual will play a critical role in the commercialization of our energy storage products, navigating complex sales transactions, and ensuring compliance with the evolving regulatory landscape. This role sits within Ford’s Office of the General Counsel but will be dedicated full-time to support of Ford Energy.
This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, "start-up" environment within a Fortune 50 company, helping to build the legal framework for a business that will define Ford’s future in sustainable energy.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. State Bar.
• A minimum of 5 years of legal experience within the energy industry, either at a major law firm or in-house.
• Proven experience in energy-related commercial sales, project development, or structured finance.

Nice To Haves

• Direct experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) or renewable energy technologies.
• Deep familiarity with energy market structures, interconnection processes, and grid-side regulatory requirements.
• Experience navigating industry standards including UL.
• Ability to translate complex legal and regulatory concepts into actionable business advice.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving business unit.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead legal counsel for the BESS sales organization.
• Draft, negotiate, and manage complex commercial agreements, including Master Supply Agreements (MSAs), Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts, and Long-Term Service Agreements (LTSAs).
• Provide strategic advice on federal and state energy regulations (including FERC, NERC, and state PUC requirements).
• Ensure BESS products and projects meet industry standards and safety certifications (e.g., UL, NFPA).
• Advise the business and engineering teams on legal risks associated with product roadmaps, warranty structures, and performance guarantees for utility-scale and/or commercial energy storage solutions.
• Identify and mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks associated with the deployment and operation of large-scale battery assets.
• Act as a core member of the BESS team, providing nuanced legal guidance that balances risk with the need for speed and innovation in a rapidly growing market.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive compensation package including performance-based bonuses, Ford vehicle benefits, and the opportunity to shape the energy strategy of one of the world's most iconic brands.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree