Legal Associate

SUMMARY:

The Legal Associate supports the In-House Counsel in managing the legal and insurance risk-related aspects of construction projects to protect the company against potential risks. Working under the supervision of In-House Counsel, this role assists with contract review, risk transfer analysis, claims documentation, insurance certificate tracking, legal research, and regulatory compliance. This position is ideal for a recent law school graduate seeking to build a career in construction law and risk management by gaining hands-on experience across the legal and risk lifecycle of construction projects.

EXPERIENCE:

1-2 years of experience. Prior internship, clerkship, or exposure to construction, insurance, or contract and risk management is a plus but not required

EDUCATION:

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school required. Admission to a state bar (or eligibility and intent to sit for the bar exam) preferred.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist In-House Counsel with the review, drafting, and organization of construction contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, and related agreements.
• Support contractual risk transfer efforts by reviewing indemnification, insurance, and liability provisions and flagging potential exposures for attorney review.
• Track and maintain Certificates of Insurance (COIs), ensuring subcontractor and vendor coverage meets contractual and project requirements.
• Assist with the intake, documentation, and tracking of claims, coordinating with project, safety, and legal teams to support timely reporting and resolution.
• Maintain clear, organized records of contracts, insurance certificates, policies, and related documentation, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Conduct legal and regulatory research on construction, insurance, and risk-related matters to support the Legal function.
• Monitor compliance with insurance requirements for contracts, subcontractors, and project sites.
• Assist project teams and executives with contract reviews for pursuits, purchase orders, and various agreements under attorney supervision.
• Prepare summaries, checklists, forms, and templates to standardize contract review and claim reporting processes.
• Serve as a point of contact for routine communications with insurance brokers, subcontractors, and internal project teams.
• Support loss prevention and risk mitigation initiatives to minimize financial risk and enhance operational resilience.
• Assist with special projects, policy development, and process improvement initiatives within the Legal and Risk functions.

EXPECTATIONS:

• Foundational knowledge of contract law and general legal principles.
• Strong legal research, reading comprehension, and analytical skills with the ability to assess risks and recommend solutions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate and organized records
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficiency in general office software (e.g., MS Office Suite)
• Willingness to learn contract and risk management systems.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven construction environment.
• Eagerness to learn, take direction, and grow within the Legal and Risk functions of the organization.