Senior Project Legal Counsel

Vantage Group•, NY

2d•$185,000 - $200,000•Onsite

About The Position

The JMP Project is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Project Legal Counsel to support complex design, construction, infrastructure, and operational matters associated with a major public infrastructure program at JFK Airport. Reporting to the VP, Governance, Risk Management & Operations, this role will partner closely with senior leadership, including the Vice President, Design and Construction, to provide legal guidance across project delivery, commercial contracts, dispute resolution, insurance claims, and regulatory compliance. This position is ideal for a proactive legal professional who thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and brings deep expertise in construction law, litigation support, and commercial operations within regulated industries. This is a unique opportunity to be part of one of the most ambitious airport transformations in the world. You will play a key role in supporting complex infrastructure and construction initiatives at JFK Airport while working alongside industry leaders in aviation, design, construction, and project delivery.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school; MBA or other advanced degree considered an asset
Admission to the New York State Bar required
Minimum 7 years of experience in construction law, mediation, arbitration, litigation, and insurance claims within large-scale infrastructure or commercial construction projects
Experience supporting public infrastructure, transportation, aviation, or other regulated industries strongly preferred
Demonstrated expertise managing complex contractual, commercial, and dispute-related matters in high-value construction environments
Strong knowledge of construction law, commercial contracts, litigation, and legal risk management principles
Exceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management capabilities
Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and sound decision-making skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Proven ability to work independently while collaborating across cross-functional and matrixed teams
High attention to detail with a commitment to operational excellence and quality execution
Strong organizational, time management, and project coordination skills
Business acumen with the ability to balance legal risk with operational and commercial objectives
Ability to navigate ambiguity and provide practical, solutions-oriented recommendations
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly PowerPoint, with the ability to create clear, compelling, and executive-level presentations

Responsibilities

Provide legal advice related to the development, construction, operation, and maintenance of project facilities and infrastructure.
Draft, review, negotiate, and finalize a broad range of legal agreements, including vendor contracts, consulting agreements, procurement agreements, design agreements, leases, and lease amendments.
Prepare and respond to legal correspondence and notices related to lease obligations, construction contracts, and project disputes.
Collaborate closely with the Design & Construction team and broader project stakeholders to support contract execution and compliance with lease and regulatory requirements.
Advise on applicable state and federal regulatory requirements impacting project operations and construction activities.
Support the resolution of design and construction disputes through negotiation, mediation, and strategic legal guidance.
Develop and implement compliance processes and tracking programs to monitor contractual and regulatory obligations.
Assist in the development and execution of litigation strategies in collaboration with internal stakeholders and external counsel.
Support all phases of litigation and dispute resolution, including pre-litigation matters, customer complaints, arbitration, and lawsuits.
Evaluate and mitigate legal and commercial risks associated with ongoing and potential claims.
Draft and review pleadings, motions, settlement agreements, and other litigation-related documentation.
Coordinate with insurers, contractors, and third parties to manage and resolve general liability and builders’ risk claims.