In-House Counsel

In-House CounselChicago, ILEmployment Type: Full-Time, SalariedReports To: Executive Leadership TeamCompensation: $125,000 - $200,000 + Performance Incentives | Partner Track OpportunityPOSITION OVERVIEW:We are seeking a highly skilled In-House Counsel with a strong background in construction law, liens, and collections to support a multi-entity restoration and construction operation. This role will serve as the primary legal authority for contract enforcement, receivables recovery, and payment dispute resolution while also advising leadership on regulatory and operational riskThe ideal candidate is hands-on, decisive, and comfortable driving outcomes—someone who understands how construction projects, insurance payments, and cash flow intersect. This position offers meaningful influence within the organization and a clear path to partnershipCORE RESPONSIBILITIES:Construction Contracts & Risk ManagementDraft, review, negotiate, and enforce construction and restoration contracts, including: Customer and insurance-related agreements | Subcontractor and vendor contracts | Master service agreements, work authorizations, and change ordersEnsure contracts protect lien rights, collection leverage, and payment enforceabilityDevelop and maintain standardized construction contract templates aligned with state-specific requirementsAdvise operations and leadership on contractual risk, scope disputes, and project documentationLiens, Collections & Receivables EnforcementLead all lien-related matters, including: Notice requirements | Filing, enforcement, and foreclosure coordination | Compliance across multiple jurisdictionsOversee and execute collection strategies from pre-lien through litigationDraft and manage demand letters, settlement agreements, and payment plansHandle collection litigation directly or manage outside counsel where appropriatePartner closely with accounting and operations to improve recovery timelines and reduce aged receivablesPayment Disputes & NegotiationAct as lead negotiator on payment disputes involving: Property owners | Commercial clients | Insurance carriers and third-party administratorsResolve scope, pricing, and coverage-related disputes with a focus on maximizing recoveryAdvise leadership on dispute prevention strategies and best practicesRegulatory & Business AdvisoryProvide legal guidance on construction and restoration regulatory requirementsAdvise on general business and HR matters, including: Employment law compliance | Policy development and risk mitigationSupport corporate governance, affiliated entities, and expansion into new marketsExecutive & Strategic SupportServe as a strategic legal advisor to executive leadershipSupport growth initiatives, acquisitions, and new business structuresManage outside counsel relationships to control costs and outcomesQUALIFICATIONS:Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law schoolActive license to practice law in IllinoisAt least 5+ years of experience in construction law, collections, or commercial litigationDemonstrated experience with: Construction contracts | Mechanic's liens and lien foreclosure | Collections and payment enforcementStrong negotiation skills and comfort managing contentious disputesPractical, business-oriented mindset with the ability to move matters forwardPreferred Experience:Construction, restoration, or contractor-side representationInsurance claim or property loss experienceIn-house counsel or firm experience supporting construction companiesMulti-state lien and regulatory experienceWHY CHOOSE US:High-impact role with direct influence on cash flow and risk managementClose collaboration with ownership and executive leadershipFast-paced, entrepreneurial environmentDefined opportunity for partnership based on performance and leadershipcontributionWe are an equal opportunity employer, and we are an organization that values diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including minorities and persons with disabilities.req26-00181