Associate Counsel - Aerospace/Defense/Regulatory

Smith is the leading independent distributor of electronic components globally, supporting mission-critical supply chains across aerospace, defense, and advanced technology industries.

As a trusted partner to government and defense organizations, we operate at the intersection of global commerce, regulatory complexity, and national security.  We are seeking a Corporate Attorney with deep experience in aerospace and defense contracting to play a high-impact role advising leadership, shaping compliance strategy, and supporting complex global transactions.

This role serves as a key legal advisor on government contracting, defense-related sales/procurement and export controls. You will partner cross-functionally with business, compliance, and supply chain teams to enable growth while managing regulatory risk in a dynamic, global environment.

Responsibilities
 

As a Defense Logistics Agency qualified supplier among more than a dozen other certifications and accreditations, you will be contributing to the team that ensures we exceed industry standards and customer expectations.

You will serve as a strategic legal partner on government and defense contracting matters.

• Advise on FAR/DFARS compliance, subcontracting, and sales strategy
• Lead the drafting, review, and negotiation of complex government and commercial agreements
• Interpret and provide guidance on ITAR, export controls, rated orders and DoD regulations
• Identify and proactively mitigate legal and compliance risks impacting business operations
• Develop and enhance scalable compliance frameworks and policies
• Partner with leadership to support growth initiatives within aerospace and defense sectors

• Working with the Sales organization you will draft, review and negotiate purchasing, sales and other government and commercial agreements, with focus on military and defense related procurements

• Deliver training and thought leadership on regulatory requirements to internal stakeholders

• Conduct legal research on regulatory requirements, government contracts and subcontracts
• Develop and implement risk mitigation and compliance framework for the military and defense group

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active bar membership.  Eligible for licensure as in-house counsel in Texas
• 7+ years of relevant experience in government contracts, aerospace & defense, or export controls
• Strong working knowledge of ITAR, DPAS, FAR, DFARS, and U.S. export regulations
• Experience advising business stakeholders in a fast-paced, commercial environment preferred

• Proven ability to balance legal risk with business objectives
• Ability to interact with multiple levels in an organization and in multiple jurisdictions
• Ability to work effectively with global legal and compliance teams, with an international mind-set

Why Join Smith?

• Work at the forefront of aerospace, defense, and advanced technology supply chains
• High visibility role with opportunity to influence business strategy and compliance programs
• Collaborative, global environment with cross-functional exposure
• Competitive compensation, performance incentives, and comprehensive benefits
• A culture that values innovation, accountability, and continuous growth

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic overachievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

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We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.