In-House Counsel

In-House Counsel Chicago, IL Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried Reports To: Executive Leadership Team Compensation: $125,000 - $200,000 + Performance Incentives POSITION OVERVIEW: We are seeking a highly skilledIn-House Counsel with a strong background in construction law, liens, and collections to support a multi-entity restoration and construction operation. This role will serve as the primary legal authority for contract enforcement, receivables recovery, and payment dispute resolution while also advising leadership on regulatory and operational risk The ideal candidate is hands-on, decisive, and comfortable driving outcomes-someone who understands how construction projects, insurance payments, and cash flow intersect. This position offers meaningful influence within the organization CORE RESPONSIBILITIES: Construction Contracts & Risk Management Draft, review, negotiate, and enforce construction and restoration contracts, including: Customer and insurance-related agreements | Subcontractor and vendor contracts | Master service agreements, work authorizations, and change orders Ensure contracts protect lien rights, collection leverage, and payment enforceability Develop and maintain standardized construction contract templates aligned with state-specific requirements Advise operations and leadership on contractual risk, scope disputes, and project documentation Liens, Collections & Receivables Enforcement Lead all lien-related matters, including: Notice requirements | Filing, enforcement, and foreclosure coordination | Compliance across multiple jurisdictions Oversee and execute collection strategies from pre-lien through litigation Draft and manage demand letters, settlement agreements, and payment plans Handle collection litigation directly or manage outside counsel where appropriate Partner closely with accounting and operations to improve recovery timelines and reduce aged receivables Payment Disputes & Negotiation Act as lead negotiator on payment disputes involving: Property owners | Commercial clients | Insurance carriers and third-party administrators Resolve scope, pricing, and coverage-related disputes with a focus on maximizing recovery Advise leadership on dispute prevention strategies and best practices Regulatory & Business Advisory Provide legal guidance on construction and restoration regulatory requirements Advise on general business and HR matters, including: Employment law compliance | Policy development and risk mitigation Support corporate governance, affiliated entities, and expansion into new markets Executive & Strategic Support Serve as a strategic legal advisor to executive leadership Support growth initiatives, acquisitions, and new business structures Manage outside counsel relationships to control costs and outcomes QUALIFICATIONS: Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school Active license to practice law in Illinois At least 5+ years of experience in construction law, collections, or commercial litigation Demonstrated experience with: Construction contracts | Mechanic's liens and lien foreclosure | Collections and payment enforcement Strong negotiation skills and comfort managing contentious disputes Practical, business-oriented mindset with the ability to move matters forward Preferred Experience: Construction, restoration, or contractor-side representation Insurance claim or property loss experience In-house counsel or firm experience supporting construction companies Multi-state lien and regulatory experience WHY CHOOSE US: High-impact role with direct influence on cash flow and risk management Close collaboration with ownership and executive leadership Fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment Defined opportunity for partnership based on performance and leadership contribution We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are an organization that values diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including minorities and persons with disabilities. req26-00181