Assistant General Counsel (New York)

Job Overview

MTA Construction and Development Company (MTA C&D) is the construction arm of the MTA and is responsible for all capital projects for the MTA operating agencies. The Assistant General Counsel will report to the Deputy General Counsel and provide legal counsel, contract management, procurement, risk management, and policy advice to MTA C&D executives and management on a broad range of issues to protect and preserve the agency's legal interests.

The Contracts Department provides legal advice on all construction contracts, litigation and claims, and change orders, as well as third‑party real‑estate agreements and condemnation proceedings, and offers support on human resources, environmental, personal injury, intellectual property, Freedom of Information Law, public relations and legislative matters, and other issues relating to MTA C&D.

Responsibilities

Provide in‑house legal counsel and business strategies for all activities affecting the agency to help executives make decisions that protect legal rights and minimize risk.

Draft and review multi‑million construction contracts and multi‑million design and professional services contracts to ensure compliance with MTA policy and state and federal regulations.

Interpret and analyze complex technical engineering plans, designs, and specifications to ensure that contract requirements are written to minimize legal risk and contractor claims.

Analyze construction design plans, specifications, schedules, and estimates to determine the merit of contractor claims and make recommendations on legal strategies for handling claims.

Represent MTA C&D in dispute resolution proceedings concerning complex construction claims with high values.

Negotiate multi‑million dollar construction contract changes to preserve the agency's legal rights, minimize delays, and protect the project's budget and schedule.

Develop and implement a compliance training program for procurement and construction management staff and consultants to ensure that all actions conform to contract requirements, agency policies and procedures, and state and federal regulations.

Represent the agency in complex and sensitive special assignments as requested by the General Counsel.

Coordinate and monitor work performed by outside counsel.

Qualifications

A Law Degree (JD) from an accredited law school and admission to the New York State Bar are required.

A minimum of one (1) year of progressively independent legal experience in a law firm, a governmental legal office, or a company's in‑house legal department is required; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Preferred background or education in engineering, construction, or architecture, experience working on matters involving construction projects and/or real estate matters, familiarity with relevant local, state, and federal laws, and experience in contract drafting or litigation.

Strong interpersonal, problem‑solving, writing, and communication skills; must be capable of building and maintaining client relationships.

Eligibility and Equal Opportunity Statement

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities. The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members.