At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.
Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.
Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.
We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.
About the RoleThe Legal Counsel at Sierra Space will serve as a key strategic advisor to leadership, managing complex legal matters while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the aerospace industry. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this role requires a seasoned legal professional who can balance risk management with business objectives in a fast-paced, innovative environment. About YouOur mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.
We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic legal counsel to executive leadership on matters affecting company operations, risk management, and business objectives
Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial contracts and agreements, including supplier terms and conditions, non-disclosure agreements, licensing agreements, and property leases
Assist with M&A, capital markets, and other business transactions
Counsel on employment law matters and support HR initiatives
Oversee the implementation and effectiveness of the company’s policies and procedures
Manage relationships with and oversee outside counsel
Develop, implement, and maintain effective compliance programs aligned with aerospace industry regulations
Advise on corporate governance matters and support Board of Directors meetings
Monitor and analyze emerging legal and regulatory developments affecting the aerospace industry
Develop and implement legal risk mitigation strategies
Translate complex legal requirements into actionable operational plans
Foster a culture of ethics and integrity throughout the organization
Required Qualifications
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
Active bar membership in relevant jurisdiction(s)
Minimum of 6+ years of relevant legal experience, preferably at a law firm or in-house at another defense or aerospace company
Proven track record of successfully managing large teams and complex legal projects
Exceptional communication skills, with ability to translate complex legal concepts for non-legal audiences
Preferred Qualifications
Expertise in multiple legal disciplines including contract law, corporate governance, labor and employment law, corporate and securities law, real estate, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance
Experience advising on capital markets transactions and mergers & acquisitions (M&A), including securities offerings, debt financings, public and private acquisitions, joint ventures, and corporate restructurings, with demonstrated ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks and provide strategic legal counsel throughout deal execution
Comprehensive knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and legal frameworks specific to the aerospace industry, including export control, FAR/DFARs, space law and regulations
Demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel relationships effectively
Strong financial acumen for managing legal expenses while ensuring quality execution
Experience establishing compliance programs and conducting risk assessments
Experience advising boards of directors and executive committees
Skills & Attributes
Strategic thinking with ability to anticipate emerging legal issues
Excellent judgment and problem-solving abilities
Strong leadership capabilities and team management experience
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines
Unwavering commitment to ethical standards and professional responsibility
Proactive approach to legal matters with business-oriented solutions
Collaborative work style with ability to build relationships across departments
Compensation:
Pay Range:
$158,189.00 - $217,508.75Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
Elevate Your CareerAt Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.
Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.
Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.
Skills Required
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
- Active bar membership in relevant jurisdiction(s)
- Minimum of 6+ years of relevant legal experience
- Proven track record of managing large teams and complex legal projects
- Exceptional communication skills
What the Team is Saying
Sierra Space Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Retirement Support — The 401(k) program is characterized as unusually strong, with plan documents indicating a high employer match through 2024 and recent notes that it remains generous even if somewhat reduced. A multi‑year vesting schedule applies, making tenure an important factor in realizing full value.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision coverage are provided alongside HSA/FSA options, life insurance, disability coverage, mental‑health support, and an Employee Assistance Program. Together these elements form a comprehensive core health package.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Information points to roughly three weeks of PTO and about eleven paid holidays, with some references to PTO accrual and carryover. Parental leave is also referenced, adding breadth to the time‑off portfolio.
Sierra Space Insights
What We Do
Securing The Freedom of Operations Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms, critical subsystems, reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight-proven success in space, Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security, Civil customers, and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation, sustain human exploration in space, and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.
Why Work With Us
At Sierra Space, you’ll find a supportive, respectful and upbeat culture where your opinions matter and your personal contributions have impact. If you’re thinking about your own next frontier, we’d love to help you explore it.
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