Director of Legal/Associate Counsel - Commercial & Multifamily Construction

Job Description Overview:We are seeking an experienced In-House Director of Legal to provide strategic and practical legal leadership for a growing commercial and multifamily construction organization. This role serves as the senior legal authority for the company, advising executive leadership and operational teams on construction law, contracts, compliance, corporate governance, risk management, and dispute resolution.The Director of Legal will play a critical role in supporting business growth while proactively mitigating legal and operational risk. This position requires a strong background in construction law, real estate matters, and contract negotiation, combined with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into actionable business guidance.The Company:The company is a Dallas-based commercial and multifamily construction firm operating statewide and experiencing rapid growth. It is known for delivering high-quality apartment and office environments while maintaining a strong culture centered around accountability, transparency, efficiency, and client-focused execution.Key Responsibilities:Construction Contracts & Risk ManagementDraft, review, and negotiate construction-related agreements including general contractor contracts, subcontracts, vendor agreements, and design-build contractsIdentify legal risks across projects and operations and implement proactive mitigation strategiesProvide guidance on claims management, dispute avoidance, and contract complianceMaintain oversight of scope modifications and legal exposure throughout project lifecyclesCompliance & Regulatory OversightEnsure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws, including OSHA, labor laws, and environmental regulationsDevelop and maintain internal policies and risk management frameworksDispute Resolution & Litigation ManagementOversee litigation, mediation, arbitration, and dispute resolution mattersCoordinate and manage outside counsel when requiredProvide strategic oversight of claims and legal proceedingsCorporate Governance & AdministrationManage corporate governance matters and maintain corporate recordsEnsure adherence to corporate policies and ethical standardsMaintain organized records of legal documents and proceedingsExecutive Advisory & Cross-Functional SupportServe as a strategic advisor to executive leadership and operational teamsProvide legal guidance on real estate matters including leases, property transactions, and financing agreementsAdvise Human Resources on employment law matters, contracts, and policy complianceSupport business operations by aligning legal strategy with company growth objectivesQualifications & ExperienceRequiredJuris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law schoolActive membership in the State Bar of TexasMinimum 10 years of legal experience in construction, real estate, or contract lawDeep understanding of construction contracts, claims management, and dispute resolutionExperience working closely with executive leadership in a business advisory capacityPreferredPrior in-house counsel experience within construction or real estate developmentFamiliarity with contract management software and project management systemsCore CompetenciesExceptional negotiation and contract drafting skillsStrong written and verbal communication abilitiesAnalytical and strategic problem-solving capabilitiesHigh professional integrity and sound judgmentAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentExecutive presence with the ability to communicate effectively to both legal and non-legal stakeholdersPhysical RequirementsAbility to sit for extended periodsOccasional lifting (20+ pounds) as requiredCompensation & BenefitsCompetitive compensation (DOE)401(k) with employer matchingMedical, dental, and vision insurancePaid time offStandard 40-hour workweek minimum with additional availability as neededLocation: Dallas, TXSchedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:30pm (additional hours as needed)Why This OpportunitySenior leadership role with direct executive visibilityHigh-impact position shaping company risk and legal strategyOpportunity to support a fast-growing construction organizationBroad exposure across contracts, governance, employment, real estate, and dispute managementLong-term leadership stability in a growth-driven environment