Legal Counsel

Vast is seeking a Legal Counsel to join our growing legal team, reporting directly to the General Counsel. This role will focus primarily on Government Contracts (approximately 40%), with the remaining time supporting Commercial Contracts (approximately 40%)—particularly within supply chain and manufacturing—as well as other critical legal matters supporting the design and construction of next-generation human-rated space stations. With the remaining 20% focus on special projects.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities: 

• Government Contracts 

  • Structure, draft, and negotiate complex agreements with U.S. government agencies, prime contractors, and subcontractors.
  • Ensure full compliance with FAR, DFARS, NFS, and other agency-specific supplements and procurement rules.
  • Develop and execute contracting strategies that align with Vast’s business and regulatory requirements.
  • Translate complex government contracting frameworks into practical legal guidance for internal teams.
  • Advise internal stakeholders on bid strategies, performance obligations, risk allocation, and compliance in the federal contracting space.

• Commercial Contracts – Supply Chain & Manufacturing

  • Draft, negotiate, and manage commercial agreements, with a focus on supply chain, manufacturing, and technology transactions.
  • Support sourcing, engineering, and operations teams in structuring deals that balance legal protection and operational efficiency.
  • Provide guidance on IP rights, indemnities, warranties, and regulatory compliance in complex commercial arrangements.
  • Help ensure contractual terms support the company’s broader business goals and legal risk posture.

• Strategic Legal Advisory & Cross-Functional Support

  • Provide timely, business-oriented legal advice to stakeholders across multiple departments.
  • Identify and manage legal risks while enabling innovation and execution speed.
  • Support sensitive legal matters such as investigations, compliance concerns, and dispute resolution.
  • Collaborate on special projects and assist the General Counsel and Associate General Counsels with evolving priorities.

Minimum Qualifications:

• JD with active admission to a U.S. state bar in good standing; eligible to practice in-house in California.
• 5+ years of experience in a legal role within a law firm, private company, or government agency.
• Subject matter expertise in both government and commercial contracting.
• Demonstrated experience drafting and negotiating contracts under FAR/DFARS and with federal or defense contractors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; excellent judgment and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Deep understanding of aerospace industry legal frameworks, especially related to government and technology contracts.
• Experience supporting supply chain and manufacturing legal operations.
• Strong relationship-building skills with both internal teams and external partners.
• Proactive and pragmatic approach to legal counseling and risk management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage shifting priorities and take initiative in unfamiliar legal areas.
• Familiarity with internal policy development and enforcement in a highly regulated environment.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel up to 15% of the time
• Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted
• Specific certifications, as appropriate

Pay Range: 

• Legal Counsel : $145,000 -$195,000