Lead Counsel, Ford Energy

About Ford Energy

Ford Energy is a newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company dedicated to accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy. Leveraging Ford’s century of manufacturing excellence and world-class battery energy storage systems (BESS) technology, Ford Energy designs, manufactures, and services grid‑scale and commercial DC‑block battery energy storage systems (BESS). Ford Energy is uniquely positioned to capture the growing demand for reliable, US‑built energy storage systems. We are not just building batteries; we are building the infrastructure for the next generation of the American grid.

The Opportunity

As we scale the Ford Energy business, we are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Attorney to serve as a primary legal partner. This individual will play a critical role in the commercialization of our energy storage products, navigating complex sales transactions, and ensuring compliance with the evolving regulatory landscape. This role sits within Ford’s Office of the General Counsel but will be dedicated full‑time to support of Ford Energy.

This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, “start‑up” environment within a Fortune 50 company, helping to build the legal framework for a business that will define Ford’s future in sustainable energy.

Key Responsibilities

• Commercial Transactions & Sales: Serve as the lead legal counsel for the BESS sales organization. Draft, negotiate, and manage complex commercial agreements, including Master Supply Agreements (MSAs), Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts, and Long‑Term Service Agreements (LTSAs).
• Regulatory & Compliance: Provide strategic advice on federal and state energy regulations (including FERC, NERC, and state PUC requirements). Ensure BESS products and projects meet industry standards and safety certifications (e.g., UL, NFPA).
• Product Development Support: Advise the business and engineering teams on legal risks associated with product roadmaps, warranty structures, and performance guarantees for utility‑scale and/or commercial energy storage solutions.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks associated with the deployment and operation of large‑scale battery assets.
• Strategic Partnership: Act as a core member of the BESS team, providing nuanced legal guidance that balances risk with the need for speed and innovation in a rapidly growing market.

Position Qualifications and Key Capabilities

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. State Bar.
• A minimum of 5 years of legal experience within the energy industry, either at a major law firm or in‑house.
• Proven experience in energy‑related commercial sales, project development, or structured finance.

Preferred

• Direct experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) or renewable energy technologies.
• Deep familiarity with energy market structures, interconnection processes, and grid‑side regulatory requirements.
• Experience navigating industry standards including UL.
• Ability to translate complex legal and regulatory concepts into actionable business advice.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, evolving business unit.

Leadership Attributes

• Visionary strategic thinker able to navigate rapidly evolving global energy storage markets.
• Calm and patient negotiator with the ability to translate and apply complex legal concepts to business goals.

Location & Travel

This role follows our hybrid work model, requiring the employee to be onsite 4 days per week at one of our primary innovation hubs in Dearborn, Michigan or Palo Alto, California. Domestic and potentially international travel required.

Benefits

At Ford Energy, you have the backing of an industrial manufacturing powerhouse with the agility of a dedicated energy startup offering industry leading technology. We offer a competitive compensation package including performance‑based bonuses, Ford vehicle benefits, and the opportunity to shape the energy strategy of one of the world's most iconic brands.

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