Founding Legal Counsel - Plant Operations & Labor Law

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA, currently building a Manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL and has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route. Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to pursue a dream of global green energy together! We offer outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting and challenging working environment. Everyone is highly valued and plays a vital role in the growth of our organization. Position Overview As the first Legal Counsel for the Manteno plant, you will serve as the primary legal advisor for all local operations. You will work closely with plant leadership, corporate headquarters, and external counsel to ensure compliance with U.S. federal and Illinois state laws, with a strong focus on labor relations and corporate law. This role is critical in supporting Gotion’s growth and mitigating legal risks in the manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities Advise management on labor and employment law matters, including union-related issues, employee relations, dispute resolution, and compliance with U.S. and Illinois labor regulations. Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and corporate documents to support plant operations. Provide legal guidance on corporate governance and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements. Support and oversee environmental compliance matters, ensuring adherence to applicable environmental laws and regulations relevant to manufacturing. Partner with HR to address workplace disputes, employee grievances, and disciplinary matters. Manage legal aspects of compliance programs, audits, and investigations. Collaborate with external counsel for specialized or complex matters. Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations, advising leadership on potential impacts. Contribute to building the legal function for the plant, laying the groundwork for future expansion of the legal team. Qualifications Juris Doctor (JD) or Master of Laws (LL.M.) from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized law school. 5+ years of relevant legal experience, preferably including in-house counsel experience in the manufacturing sector. Proven expertise in labor and employment law (including union negotiations and dispute resolution). Solid understanding of corporate law and contract management. Knowledge of environmental compliance regulations in the U.S. manufacturing context. Familiarity with Illinois state laws and regulatory environment. Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and communicate complex legal concepts to non-legal audiences. High level of integrity, judgment, and discretion in handling sensitive matters. Nice-to-Have Experience working in a multinational corporation, especially with Chinese or Asian-based parent companies. Prior experience setting up a legal function in a new facility or business unit. Why Join Gotion Be the founding legal advisor for a major U.S. manufacturing site. Shape the legal framework for a high-growth, mission-driven company in the clean energy sector. Work in a dynamic, cross-cultural environment with opportunities for professional growth. The U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $180k –$250k, plus eligibility for bonus and benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by factors such as the role, level, and geographic location. The range listed in the job posting represents the minimum and maximum target salaries for this position across all U.S. locations. Actual compensation within the range will be influenced by the specific work location, along with factors such as job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter will provide more details about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the listed compensation reflects the base salary only and does not include bonus or benefits. Gotion Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve, cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and ensuring equal employment opportunities for all. We provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), parental status, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other characteristic protected by law. At Gotion Inc., we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 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