Senior Legal Counsel

Senior Project Legal CounselThe JMP Project is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Project Legal Counsel to support complex design, construction, infrastructure, and operational matters associated with a major public infrastructure program at JFK Airport. Reporting to the VP, Governance, Risk Management & Operations, this role will partner closely with senior leadership, including the Vice President, Design and Construction, to provide legal guidance across project delivery, commercial contracts, dispute resolution, insurance claims, and regulatory compliance.This position is ideal for a proactive legal professional who thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and brings deep expertise in construction law, litigation support, and commercial operations within regulated industries.As a Senior Project Legal Counsel, you will:Provide legal advice related to the development, construction, operation, and maintenance of project facilities and infrastructure.Draft, review, negotiate, and finalize a broad range of legal agreements, including vendor contracts, consulting agreements, procurement agreements, design agreements, leases, and lease amendments.Prepare and respond to legal correspondence and notices related to lease obligations, construction contracts, and project disputes.Collaborate closely with the Design & Construction team and broader project stakeholders to support contract execution and compliance with lease and regulatory requirements.Advise on applicable state and federal regulatory requirements impacting project operations and construction activities.Support the resolution of design and construction disputes through negotiation, mediation, and strategic legal guidance.Develop and implement compliance processes and tracking programs to monitor contractual and regulatory obligations.Assist in the development and execution of litigation strategies in collaboration with internal stakeholders and external counsel.Support all phases of litigation and dispute resolution, including pre-litigation matters, customer complaints, arbitration, and lawsuits.Evaluate and mitigate legal and commercial risks associated with ongoing and potential claims.Draft and review pleadings, motions, settlement agreements, and other litigation-related documentation.Coordinate with insurers, contractors, and third parties to manage and resolve general liability and builders' risk claims.What You Bring:Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school; MBA or other advanced degree considered an assetAdmission to the New York State Bar requiredMinimum 7 years of experience in construction law, mediation, arbitration, litigation, and insurance claims within large-scale infrastructure or commercial construction projectsExperience supporting public infrastructure, transportation, aviation, or other regulated industries strongly preferredDemonstrated expertise managing complex contractual, commercial, and dispute-related matters in high-value construction environmentsStrong knowledge of construction law, commercial contracts, litigation, and legal risk management principlesExceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management capabilitiesStrong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and sound decision-making skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environmentsProven ability to work independently while collaborating across cross-functional and matrixed teamsHigh attention to detail with a commitment to operational excellence and quality executionStrong organizational, time management, and project coordination skillsBusiness acumen with the ability to balance legal risk with operational and commercial objectivesAbility to navigate ambiguity and provide practical, solutions-oriented recommendationsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly PowerPoint, with the ability to create clear, compelling, and executive-level presentationsThis is a unique opportunity to be part of one of the most ambitious airport transformations in the world. You will play a key role in supporting complex infrastructure and construction initiatives at JFK Airport while working alongside industry leaders in aviation, design, construction, and project delivery.Compensation: The expected annual compensation for this position includes a base salary of $185,000 - $200,000 per year, plus eligibility for an annual incentive.AI Disclosure: We may use artificial intelligence-powered tools to support candidate sourcing. All applications are reviewed by our Talent Acquisition and Hiring teams, and all selection and hiring decisions are made by human decision-makers. Vacancy Disclosure: This posting is for an existing vacancy.This is an on-site role located in US, with a preference given to the candidates in or near the JFK Airport/ New York City area. The application deadline is September 8, 2026.At Vantage Group, we seek and welcome unique backgrounds, perspectives, experiences and skills. As a global organization, we are always looking for differentiated points of view. We know that a diverse, inclusive and empowered workforce is essential to our shared success, and we invite you to join us for the journey.