Government Contracts Associate (Aerospace, Defense & Next-Generation Energy)

DLA Piper is a collaborative and supportive firm seeking an associate to join their practice focused on the Aerospace, Defense, and Next-Generation Energy sectors. The role involves drafting and negotiating complex contracts, licenses, and developmental agreements, while also supporting transactional matters and engaging in disputes and investigations. Responsibilities Responsibilities as an Associate will vary based on level of experience and specific practice group Legal Research: Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support case/transaction preparation and strategy Legal Writing: Draft well-written, error free, and reasoned legal documents, including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence Case/Transaction Assistance and Management: Assist/Manage a variety of complex cases/transactions from inception to resolution including preparing for trials, negotiations, settlements, closings, and other legal activities while continuously demonstrating strong judgement Internal/External Client Interaction: Build, maintain, and cultivate strong internal and external client relationships by providing support, regular updates, advice, and addressing concerns promptly and with the utmost professionalism Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other lawyers and business professionals to support and develop innovative case/transaction strategies to achieve the most favorable outcomes for internal and external clients Attend, support, and participate in high-level legal activities including court hearings, depositions, negotiations, trials, etc Compliance: Ensure rigorous compliance with legal standards and regulations, staying abreast of changes in law and legal precedents Professional Development: Proactively seek out and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your legal knowledge, practice technology, management, and leadership skills Firm Citizenship and Community Involvement: Engage in and contribute to; firm programs and initiatives; civic and professional organizations; pro bono work by providing legal assistance to underserved and underrepresented communities Skills 1-3 years of direct and applicable experience in an AmLaw 100 firm JD Minimum GPA of 3.5 Degree from an accredited law school Admitted to the DC Bar or ability to gain admission 1 year of relevant experience in the Aerospace, Defense, and Next-Generation Energy sectors Direct and applicable AmLaw 100 firm experience Excellent written and verbal communication abilities Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills Attention to detail Good business and professional judgment Excellent organizational skills Ability to work collaboratively and independently Conceptual thinking Persuasive communication Management skills Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required Foster positive work relationships Comply with all firm policies and practices Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing Participate in digital/virtual conference calls Participate in meetings as needed Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned Prior experience in the Aerospace, Defense, or Next-Generation Energy sectors is encouraged Prior non-legal experience in a client advisory role is also encouraged Benefits Medical/dental/vision insurance 401(k) Company Overview DLA Piper is a global law firm with lawyers located in more than 40 countries to helps clients with their legal needs around the world. It was founded in 2005, and is headquartered in London, England, GBR, with a workforce of 5001-10000 employees. Its website is Company H1B Sponsorship DLA Piper has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 6 in 2025, 10 in 2024, 6 in 2023, 4 in 2022, 14 in 2021, 14 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.