Legal Counsel

Gotion, Inc.•Manteno, IL

2d•$180,000 - $250,000•Onsite

About The Position

Gotion Inc. is seeking a Legal Counsel to serve as the primary legal advisor for its new manufacturing plant in Manteno, IL. This role is crucial for ensuring compliance with U.S. federal and Illinois state laws, with a particular emphasis on labor relations and corporate law. The Legal Counsel will work closely with plant leadership, corporate headquarters, and external counsel to support Gotion's growth and mitigate legal risks within the manufacturing environment. This is an opportunity to be the founding legal advisor for a major U.S. manufacturing site and shape the legal framework for a high-growth company in the clean energy sector.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) or Master of Laws (LL.M.) from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized law school.
Active license to practice law in Illinois (or ability to obtain in a timely manner).
5+ years of relevant legal experience, preferably including in-house counsel experience in the manufacturing sector.
Proven expertise in labor and employment law (including union negotiations and dispute resolution).
Solid understanding of corporate law and contract management.
Knowledge of environmental compliance regulations in the U.S. manufacturing context.
Familiarity with Illinois state laws and regulatory environment.
Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and communicate complex legal concepts to non-legal audiences.
High level of integrity, judgment, and discretion in handling sensitive matters.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a multinational corporation, especially with Chinese or Asian-based parent companies.
Prior experience setting up a legal function in a new facility or business unit.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary legal point of contact for the Manteno plant.
Advise management on labor and employment law matters, including union-related issues, employee relations, dispute resolution, and compliance with U.S. and Illinois labor regulations.
Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and corporate documents to support plant operations.
Provide legal guidance on corporate governance and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
Support and oversee environmental compliance matters, ensuring adherence to applicable environmental laws and regulations relevant to manufacturing.
Partner with HR to address workplace disputes, employee grievances, and disciplinary matters.
Manage legal aspects of compliance programs, audits, and investigations.
Collaborate with external counsel for specialized or complex matters.
Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations, advising leadership on potential impacts.
Contribute to building the legal function for the plant, laying the groundwork for future expansion of the legal team.