Government Contracts Associate

About the Firm :

Our client is a globally recognized legal enterprise, consistently ranked in the AmLaw 50 and noted for its elite cross-disciplinary approach to complex regulatory and corporate matters. The firm's Washington, D.C. presence is celebrated for its deep bench in regulatory compliance, Global Trade , and its comprehensive Government Contracts practice, serving as a critical nexus for clients interfacing with federal agencies. They frequently receive high marks from Chambers USA for their work advising leading contractors in the defense, technology, and life sciences sectors. The firm cultivates a collaborative environment that encourages professional development and provides unparalleled exposure to high-stakes transactional due diligence and compliance counseling.

Job Description :

The successful Associate will be a key contributor to the firm's Government Contracts and Grants subspecialty , operating at the intersection of corporate transactions and federal procurement compliance . This role is primarily transactional and advisory, focusing on the specialized requirements of companies whose revenue streams involve U.S. government agencies. Core responsibilities include :

• Leading specialized due diligence efforts on behalf of private equity, venture capital, and corporate clients engaging in M&A activity , internal reorganizations, or investments in government contractors.
• Analyzing complex federal, state, and local contracts to identify and mitigate risks related to novations, mandatory disclosures, and change of control issues.
• Drafting detailed contractual provisions and disclosure schedules required for corporate transactions under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
• Evaluating and advising on the implementation of robust corporate ethics and compliance programs uniquely tailored for companies serving government end users.
• Providing strategic counsel on matters concerning internal investigations, mandatory reporting, and compliance with grant obligations.

Qualifications :

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited Law School .
• Admission to the District of Columbia Bar (or eligibility to obtain admission promptly).
• A minimum of four (4) to seven (7) years of focused experience in Government Contracts, Grants, or Procurement Law, preferably gained at a peer law firm or relevant federal agency.
• Significant, demonstrated expertise in transactional due diligence and the associated regulatory compliance specific to mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures of government contractors.
• Outstanding analytical rigor , communication skills, and a proven ability to distill complex regulations into actionable client advice.

Preferred Skills :

• Prior experience or familiarity with global trade regulations and export control regimes (e.g., ITAR, EAR) as they intersect with federal contracting.
• Experience advising clients in the Defense, Aerospace, Technology, or Life Sciences sectors.
• An advanced credential, such as a Master of Laws ( L.L.M. ) in Government Procurement Law or a related regulatory field.
• Familiarity with the CFIUS review process concerning foreign investment in U.S. companies that hold government contracts.

(This a job advertisement on behalf of our client and does not reflect the full job description for the role. Any qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. You will need to provide law school transcripts, a writing sample or deal sheets, and a cover letter in order to be considered for this role. This posting does not constitute an offer of employment, and the listed compensation details may vary by state or experience and will be discussed thoroughly during interview phase.)