Legal Counsel

GKN Aerospace Careers•Charlestown, NH

About The Position

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies. And we’re committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.Job SummaryWe are seeking a Legal Counsel with experience in U.S. Government contracting—preferably within the aerospace or defense industry—to join the legal team at GKN Aerospace Engines. This role supports a broad range of U.S.-focused contractual, regulatory, and compliance matters. You will work closely with Senior Legal Counsel on a day-to-day basis and report to the Head of Legal. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career attorney to deepen expertise in federal contracting and aerospace/defense regulations, while gaining exposure to broader commercial legal matters over time.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) degree and active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction
2–5 years of experience supporting U.S. Government contracts, ideally in aerospace, defense, or a highly regulated industry
Working knowledge of U.S. government contracting regulations, including FAR and DFARS
Experience advising on complex legal and compliance issues

Nice To Haves

Practical, solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently while knowing when to escalate issues
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment
Proven ability to build trusted relationships and collaborate effectively across functions
Strong judgment, integrity, and the confidence to deliver difficult messages when needed
Demonstrated ability to think creatively and deliver business-focused legal solutions
Adaptable and comfortable working in a dynamic, evolving environment
Interest in how technology is shaping the aerospace and defense industry
In-house legal experience within a manufacturing or aerospace organization strongly preferred
Alignment with GKN Aerospace’s core values

Responsibilities

Support the review, drafting, and negotiation of U.S. Government contracts and subcontracts, including agreements governed by FAR and DFARS
Assist with compliance related to federal procurement regulations, export controls, and related requirements
Support contract flow-down analysis and monitor compliance with contractual obligations
Interpret and advise internal stakeholders on contractual and regulatory requirements
Partner with Senior Legal Counsel to provide practical, business-oriented legal guidance to engineering, procurement, and operations teams
Assist in resolving contractual issues that arise during contract performance
Participate in internal reviews related to risk management, compliance, and corporate governance
Support commercial contracting activities (e.g., NDAs, teaming agreements, supplier agreements)
Assist in developing internal legal processes, templates, and training materials
Support dispute avoidance efforts and early identification of legal risks
Gain exposure to commercial legal matters (prior experience is a plus, but not required)