Legal Counsel

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.  ABOUT THE ROLE Apex is seeking a dynamic, organized, and driven Legal Counsel to join our expanding team. As a company at the forefront of space exploration and satellite technology, Apex is looking for a motivated and adaptable lawyer with 2–4 years of legal experience to join our growing legal team. This is a unique opportunity for a self-starter who wants to develop into a true generalist in an in-house environment. The ideal candidate will have a foundation in contract drafting and negotiation, some exposure to government contracting (FAR/DFARS), and ideally a background in or familiarity with litigation. A strong desire to learn new areas of the law such as space law, labor and employment, regulatory compliance, and M&A is essential. Key Responsibilities: - Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts, including commercial and supply chain agreements, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), consulting and service agreements, and help ensure contractual terms support the company’s broader business goals and legal risk posture. - Support and advise on matters involving government contracts, including compliance with FAR and DFARS requirements. - Provide legal guidance to internal stakeholders on contractual rights and obligations, including IP rights, indemnities, warranties, and regulatory compliance. - Assist in the development and implementation of contract management policies, processes, and playbooks. - Collaborate with outside counsel on litigation matters, including discovery, document production, and strategy. - Proactively identify legal risks and propose solutions. - Participate in the development and training of internal teams on legal and compliance topics. - Assist with mergers and acquisitions, including due diligence, negotiation, and integration. - Ensure the company maintains compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, updating policies as necessary. - Provide timely, business-oriented legal advice to stakeholders across multiple departments. - Support sensitive legal matters such as investigations, compliance concerns, and dispute resolution. - Collaborate on special projects and assist the Legal team with evolving priorities. Qualifications: - J.D. from an accredited law school and active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar, California preferred. - 2–4 years of relevant legal experience, with in-house or corporate setting experience preferred. - Experience with commercial contract drafting, review, and negotiation. - Familiarity with government contracting regulations (FAR/DFARS) is a plus. - Demonstrated interest in expanding knowledge into new legal areas (e.g., employment law, M&A, corporate compliance). - Strong organizational and communication skills, with excellent attention to detail. - Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines. - Collaborative mindset and comfort working with cross-functional teams. - Strong business acumen and practical approach to legal advice. - Demonstrated independent ownership of work, ensuring thorough tracking and completion. - Solution-driven, innovative thinker with a passion for improving business outcomes. - Superior interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective collaboration at all organizational levels. Nice-to-Have - Experience in satellite manufacturing or related industries (aerospace, defense, or high-tech) is strongly preferred. WHY JOIN APEX? Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one. WHAT WE OFFER FOR FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES: - Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create - Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost - Comprehensive PTO package: Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays - Competitive 401(k) plan: Generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2% - 8 weeks paid parental leave: Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel - Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the day - Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family - Your dream desk setup: All the tools you need to be your most productive self - World-class Playa Vista office: With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life - Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan. ITAR REQUIREMENTS Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/?id=ddtc_kb_article_page&sys_id=24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.