Government Contracts Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Government Contracts Associate to join the Government Contracts practice of a leading Am Law 100 law firm in Washington, DC. This is a full-time, hybrid-position supporting a range of government contracts matters across transactional, litigation, compliance, and advisory work, including clients in the Aerospace, Defense, and Next-Generation Energy sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise clients on government contracts matters, including bid protests, claims litigation, investigations, compliance counseling, and M&A due diligence involving government contracts

• Draft, negotiate, and manage complex contracts, licenses, and developmental agreements, particularly for clients in the aerospace, defense, and energy sectors

• Support transactional matters while also assisting with disputes, internal investigations, and regulatory counseling

• Conduct legal research and analysis to support case strategy, compliance, and transactional work

• Draft high-quality legal documents including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence

• Manage cases and transactions from inception through resolution, coordinating with clients and internal teams

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, providing timely advice and updates

• Collaborate with lawyers and business professionals to develop innovative solutions and strategies

• Participate in professional development and contribute to firm initiatives, pro bono work, and community engagement

Qualifications:

• JD from an accredited law school (minimum GPA 3.5 preferred)

• Admitted to practice in DC (or eligible for admission)

• 1–3 years of experience in government contracts matters, ideally from an Am Law 100 firm or equivalent experience with federal agencies or government contractors

• Prior experience in Aerospace, Defense, or Next-Generation Energy sectors preferred

• Prior clerkship with the U.S. Court of Federal Claims or Boards of Contract Appeals, or relevant pre-law professional experience, is a plus

• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Work Environment:

• Hybrid schedule with regular in-office presence and some flexibility for remote work

• Primarily sedentary work with occasional physical activity as needed

Compensation:

• Expected base salary: $225,000 – $260,000
  (Final compensation depends on experience and other relevant factors.)

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)

This role offers exposure to complex government contracts matters across transactional, compliance, and litigation work, with opportunities to support high-profile clients in critical industries.