Senior Counsel, Arc

Circle Internet Financial•New York City, NY

12d•Remote

About The Position

As Senior Counsel on the Product Legal team, you will provide strategic legal support for the launch and evolution of Arc (the layer-1 blockchain designed by Circle and currently in public testnet) and broader infrastructure initiatives. Reporting to the Assistant General Counsel, Arc, you will advise on the design and operation of the Arc network, partnering closely with senior leaders across Product, Engineering, Compliance, and Policy to navigate complex global regulatory landscapes. You will anticipate and manage legal risks related to blockchain technologies, smart contracts, and digital asset frameworks, helping ensure Arc aligns with Circle’s vision and commitment to responsible innovation.

Requirements

J.D. degree with strong academic credentials and active membership in good standing with a U.S. state bar.
10+ years of relevant legal experience, including at a top law firm or in-house at a technology or financial services company.
Expertise in U.S. financial regulations, including securities, commodities, banking, or payments law.
Experience advising on legal risk and compliance considerations for blockchain or digital asset products.
Familiarity with legal issues related to smart contracts, token design, or distributed governance models.
Demonstrated ability to navigate complex legal frameworks in fast-paced, high-growth environments.
Deep knowledge of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and related anti-money laundering (AML) and sanctions obligations applicable to digital assets and financial technology companies.
Experience advising on U.S. and global money transmission laws, including licensing considerations and operational implications.

Nice To Haves

Ability to translate legal guidance into practical recommendations for product and engineering teams.
Strong collaboration and communication skills, including experience partnering with cross-functional teams.
Exposure to policy, regulatory engagement, or open-source legal frameworks in Web3 or fintech contexts.

Responsibilities

Advise on the design, launch, and governance of the Arc network to ensure legal and regulatory compliance across global markets.
Lead regulatory analysis related to blockchain and Web3 infrastructure, with a focus on digital asset, securities, and financial frameworks.
Partner with Product, Engineering, Compliance, and Policy to shape blockchain features and smart contract structures aligned with applicable laws.
Design and implement legal policies, protocols, and risk mitigation strategies that promote safe and scalable network operations.
Shape distributed governance frameworks that align with legal standards and support long-term sustainability of the Arc network.
Contribute legal insight and strategic input to Circle’s leadership briefings and regulatory engagement efforts.