General Counsel (El Segundo)

Picogrid is a leading venture-backed defense technology company founded to bridge the decades-long gap between modern technology and the critical demands of national security. Today, we're building the essential infrastructure to unify sensors, autonomy, and operators with our technology deployed in active operations around the world. Our mission is to deliver an operational advantage to secure the United States and its allies.

About the role

Picogrid is seeking a General Counsel to lead all legal and compliance functions as we scale our technology into active operations around the world. You will be the company's first dedicated legal hire, reporting directly to a co-founder and sitting at the table for every significant decision: government contracts, commercial deals, export compliance, fundraising, and corporate governance.

The right candidate has navigated the complexity of defense contracting, built or managed an export compliance program, and knows how to give clear guidance in ambiguous situations without slowing the business down. You're passionate about the law and policy of defense technology, and have an independent interest in the issues at the frontier of this field.

Responsibilities

Serve as the company's primary legal advisor across all functions: government contracts, commercial agreements, corporate governance, employment, IP, and regulatory compliance.

Own Picogrid's export compliance program, including ITAR and EAR, ensuring Picogrid stays ahead of a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

Assist government contracts across the full procurement lifecycle, from proposal review and contract award through performance and closeout, with fluency in FAR/DFARS, OTAs, and SBIRs.

Partner with the go-to-market and program teams to support proposal strategy, contract structuring, and customer negotiations.

Support fundraising and strategic transactions alongside finance and leadership.

Manage outside counsel relationships effectively, scoping work, controlling cost, and maintaining quality.

Monitor regulatory and policy developments relevant to Picogrid's business, including ITAR/EAR revisions, NDAA provisions, and acquisition reform, and translate implications for the leadership team.

Advise on employment matters and sensitive HR situations as they arise.

Required Qualifications

J.D. from an accredited law school; active bar membership in at least one U.S. state.

8+ years of legal experience, with significant time in-house at a defense technology, aerospace, or government contracting company.

Prior experience as General Counsel or senior counsel with broad ownership of a company's legal portfolio.

Hands-on experience with ITAR and EAR, including classification analysis, license applications, and compliance program management.

Substantive government contracts experience, including FAR/DFARS, contract vehicles, and data rights.

Judgment and initiative to own complex matters end-to-end with limited resources and no legal team behind you.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience building legal and compliance infrastructure at a venture-backed company.

Familiarity with CMMC, CUI handling requirements, and information security frameworks relevant to DoW contractors.

Background supporting Series A+ fundraising and M&A diligence.

Active security clearance, or eligibility and willingness to obtain one.

Experience with non-traditional contract vehicles, including OTAs and SBIRs.

A genuine interest in defense technology and the mission it supports.

Benefits

Base salary range: $190,000 - $250,000 per year plus performance incentive. Base salary is just one part of your total compensation package.

Significant stock options with a high potential upside as an early-stage company

• 401(k) with employer matching
• Full health coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance)
• Relocation assistance provided (if applicable)
• Unlimited PTO (two-week minimum) and 11 paid holidays per year
• Paid parental leave for both parents
• Lunch provided when working in-office and a fully stocked kitchenette
• Free EV charging at the HQ
• Unique office in El Segundo, CA stocked with quality coffee, snacks, and craft beer

Export Control Requirements

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.