Labor & Employment Attorney

Huntington Beach, California, United States

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach Industries is seeking a Labor & Employment Attorney to advise on the full employee lifecycle and support the growth of our engineering, manufacturing, and corporate teams. You will partner closely with People, executive leadership, and operating managers to resolve workplace issues, develop scalable employment practices, and manage labor and employment risk across multiple locations.

The ideal candidate is a practical counselor with strong California employment law experience and sound judgment in sensitive situations. You should be comfortable working directly with managers, handling investigations, and developing clear recommendations that account for both legal requirements and operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise on hiring, onboarding, performance management, discipline, terminations, workforce changes, and other employment matters.
• Counsel People and operating leaders on wage and hour compliance, employee classification, working time, meal and rest periods, compensation practices, and contingent labor.
• Advise on accommodations, leaves of absence, disability, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and workplace conduct.
• Conduct or oversee workplace investigations and recommend appropriate corrective action.
• Draft and maintain employment agreements, offer letters, separation agreements, policies, handbooks, and related documentation.
• Support manufacturing operations on scheduling, overtime, staffing models, temporary labor, and workforce expansion.
• Advise on labor relations, organizing activity, collective bargaining obligations, and compliance with the National Labor Relations Act.
• Manage employment claims, agency matters, and litigation in coordination with outside counsel.
• Support workplace safety matters in coordination with EHS and other legal specialists.
• Develop manager training and partner with People to implement consistent practices across jurisdictions.
• Monitor legal developments and translate them into timely policy and operational changes.

Required Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar, with eligibility to practice in-house in California.
• 5+ years of relevant labor and employment law experience at a law firm, in-house legal department, or a combination of both.
• Substantial experience advising on California employment law.
• Experience counseling employers on sensitive personnel matters and conducting or overseeing workplace investigations.
• Strong working knowledge of federal employment law and experience supporting employers across multiple states.
• Excellent judgment, discretion, and the ability to provide clear, actionable advice.
• Ability to build trust with employees, managers, and senior leadership while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or other businesses with substantial on-site and hourly workforces.
• 5+ years of relevant labor and employment law experience at a law firm, in-house legal department, or a combination of both.
• Experience with labor relations, union organizing matters, and collective bargaining.
• Experience managing employment litigation, agency investigations, and wage and hour disputes.
• Familiarity with workplace safety requirements and federal contractor employment obligations.
• Experience supporting rapid hiring, new facility openings, and expansion into additional states.

Additional Requirements

• Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here .

Pay Range

$190,000 - $240,000 USD

At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends.

Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy:

• Competitive Salaries : We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.
• Performance-Based Incentives : Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.
• Equity Participation : We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.
• Benefit Packages : Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office.
• Professional Development : We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth.
• Transparency : We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect.

By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long‑term success.

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!