Contracts Attorney (Construction Contracts Specialist)

The Contracts Attorney will play a pivotal role in supporting the company's legal and business operations, focusing on drafting, reviewing, and negotiating construction-related contracts. This attorney will work closely with the business units, project managers, and external stakeholders to ensure that all construction contracts align with the company's objectives, mitigate risk, and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of experience in construction law, a strong understanding of construction industry practices, and a proactive approach to resolving complex legal matters.

Black & Veatch's Business Enablement consists of critical groups that help enable the organizations people, projects, and businesses to be as successful as possible. Functions in this group include Digital & Information Technology, Global Finance, Global Human Resources, Legal, Risk Management, and Government Affairs and Real Estate and Building Services.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide variety of construction-related agreements, including but not limited to, construction contracts, subcontracts, service agreements, and procurement contracts.
• Provide legal advice and guidance on construction-related matters, including project delivery methods (e.g., design-build, CM at risk, and traditional contracting).
• Advise business teams on risk management, legal compliance, and strategies to mitigate potential disputes in construction projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including project managers, engineers, and procurement departments, to address legal concerns related to ongoing and upcoming construction projects.
• Assist in the resolution of disputes, including the preparation of claims, arbitration, and litigation support.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with applicable laws and industry regulations, including construction safety standards, labor laws, and environmental regulations.
• Maintain and update templates and best practices for construction contracts and legal documentation.
• Conduct legal research and stay current on industry trends, changes in laws, and relevant case law.
• Provide training and guidance to internal stakeholders on legal issues related to construction contracts and project management

Minimum Qualifications

• Law degree required
• Licensed to practice law in at least 1 jurisdiction
• Typically 3+ years of experience
• All applicants must be able to complete pre-employment onboarding requirements (if selected) which may include any/all of the following: criminal/civil background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle records search, in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school and admitted to practice in Kansas
• 3-5 years of experience in construction law, with a focus on drafting, reviewing, and negotiating construction contracts
• Strong understanding of construction industry standards, regulations, and project management practices
• Experience with dispute resolution mechanisms in the construction industry, including litigation, mediation, and arbitration
• Excellent legal research, writing, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to providing accurate, high-quality legal counsel
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external parties
• Proactive, business-oriented mindset with a focus on practical solutions to legal challenges
• Experience working in-house for a construction or engineering company
• Knowledge of public and private procurement processes and government contracting regulations
• Familiarity with construction insurance, bonding, and surety issues

Work Environment/Physical Demands

Hybrid or flexible work options may be offered after the first 90 days of employment based upon manager discretion, job performance and work assignments.