Senior Legal Counsel

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Job Description

At Saab, Inc., we’re looking for a strategic, business-minded Senior Legal Counsel to join our in-house legal team. This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of innovation, national security, and global business, partnering closely with leaders across the organization to navigate complex legal and regulatory challenges.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years of experience, preferably within the aerospace and defense industry, and thrives in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment. This position is located in Syracuse, NY.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to

• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial agreements, including teaming, licensing, and collaboration agreements.
• Advise on government contracts, high-value transactions, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Provide guidance on aerospace and defense regulations, compliance obligations, and internal policy development.
• Partner with HR and leadership on employment matters, including investigations, policies, disciplinary actions, and dispute resolution.
• Support corporate governance, entity management, and statutory compliance activities.
• Manage legal risks, disputes, litigation, and internal investigations in coordination with external counsel.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with teams across business operations, supply chain, HR, finance, government affairs, and communications.
• Deliver practical, business-focused legal advice that supports strategic decision-making.

Compensation Range

$132,000 - $171,600

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience

Required Qualifications

• Law degree (J.D. or equivalent) and admission to practice in a relevant jurisdiction.
• 5+ years of legal experience, ideally with a mix of law firm and in-house exposure.
• Demonstrated experience in commercial contracting and regulatory compliance.
• Working knowledge of employment law is strongly preferred.
• Motivated self-starter, with strong legal, interpersonal, sound judgment, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced business environment.
• Familiarity with international operations and cross-border legal issues.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Ability to operate independently while collaborating within a team environment.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Budget management skills.
• Self-supporting with ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, as well as cloud-based tools such as OneDrive and Teams.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in Aerospace and Defense or similar industries.
• 3+ years of experience practicing employment law, ideally with a combination of law firm and/or in-house experience.
• Experience in change management, project management, business process management, or system implementation.
• Experience with in-house technology and matter management tools.
• Strong business acumen.
• Strong influencing skills.

Citizenship Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
• Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays
• 401(k) with employer contributions
• Tuition assistance and student loan assistance
• Wellness and employee assistance resources
• Employee stock purchase opportunities
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

About Us

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world.

In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.