Senior Legal Counsel

LOCATION: Chicago, IL

COMPANY OVERVIEW: We are a General Contractor and Construction Management firm, established on the core principles of family, honesty, discipline, and quality. Our team consists of individuals with extensive general contracting, construction management, and design-build experience. We build projects with passion and are driven by the anticipation of the impact they will have in our communities- for years to come.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

As a Senior Legal Counsel at BOWA Construction, you will provide legal support across a wide range of business functions. This mid-level in-house legal role is responsible for overseeing contract management, regulatory compliance, and providing strategic legal guidance to internal teams. You will collaborate closely with project leaders, HR, and senior management to identify legal risks, support internal policies, and ensure that company operations comply with applicable laws and industry standards.

The ideal candidate is a proactive, solutions-oriented attorney with strong experience in commercial transactions, employment law, and general corporate legal matters, ideally within the construction or a related industry.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Legal Advisory & Compliance:

• Provide legal advice to internal stakeholders on various matters, including compliance, risk, and policy interpretation
• Ensure company practices align with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations
• Assist with developing and implementing internal policies and legal protocols

Contract Management:

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, including subcontracts, vendor agreements, NDAs, and client service agreements
• Identify legal risks in contract terms and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies
• Support the resolution of contract-related issues and disputes
• Manage lien waivers and related documentation

Employment Law Support:

• Partner with HR to ensure compliance with employment-related laws and regulations
• Review employment documentation such as offer letters, separation agreements, and policy updates
• Advise on internal investigations, employee relations matters, and disciplinary actions

Risk Management & Governance:

• Monitor legal risks and advise on risk mitigation strategies
• Support corporate governance activities, including business license renewals, filings, and compliance documentation
• Provide guidance on insurance claims and general business risk issues

Litigation & External Counsel Coordination:

• Coordinate with outside counsel for litigation, claims, or specialized legal needs
• Assist with documentation, internal reporting, and case tracking
• Manage legal spend and align strategy with company leadership

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, QUALIFICATIONS, & EXPERIENCE:

• Education: Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• License: Licensed to practice law and in good standing with a U.S. state bar (Illinois preferred)
• Experience: 4–7 years of legal experience, preferably in-house or within the construction, real estate, or professional services sectors
• Legal Knowledge: Strong foundation in commercial contracts, employment law, and regulatory compliance
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in legal research, Microsoft Office Suite, and familiarity with contract management platforms preferred
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a collaborative, business-partner approach
• Analytical Thinking: Strong problem-solving skills and ability to provide sound, practical legal advice

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance – 70% employer contribution, plus HSA contributions
• Performance-Based Bonuses – % of base salary
• Parental Leave
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Vacation, Sick Time, & Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program – confidential support for personal and professional well-being

At BOWA Construction, the salary range for this position reflects careful consideration of factors such as education, qualifications, skills, training, experience, certifications, internal equity, and geographic location. While hiring at the top of the range is uncommon, each compensation decision is thoughtfully made based on the candidate's unique background and fit for the role.