What are the responsibilities and job description for the Risk Manager- Insurance and Legal position at Woodward Design+Build?
Job Title: Risk Manager- Insurance and Legal
Location: New Orleans, LA
About Us:
Woodward Design Build is a leader in the design and commercial construction community with a culture that encourages innovation and offers challenging career opportunities. We are looking for talented experienced Construction Risk Manager to join our in-house risk management/legal department. The ideal candidate will have minimum 3-5 years of experience supporting company and project leadership in construction risk management and legal matters, including contract administration, claims management, corporate legal entity operations, project insurance procurement support, and subcontractor insurance compliance. The successful candidate will work closely with our CFO, Corporate Counsel, Operations and Estimating leadership, and HR. The role reports to our Corporate Counsel.
Woodward offers a supportive, rigorous, value-driven work environment and a wide range of exciting projects that will keep you challenged, motivated, and growing in your career.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Legal
• Assist with drafting, reviewing, and managing construction-related contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, and vendor agreements
• Maintain and organize contract databases, legal files, and project documentation.
• Support claims and dispute resolution matters, including document collection and deadline tracking
• Coordinate document collection for subpoenas, discovery requests, and audits, as needed
• Conduct legal and factual research related to construction law, regulatory compliance, and risk management
• Assist with corporate legal entity and license compliance requirements. Ensure timely license renewals.
• Communicate with project managers, executives, outside counsel, and subcontractors regarding legal documentation and compliance issues
Insurance
• Collect documentation and monitor ongoing compliance of subcontractor insurances
• Facilitate project-specific insurance procurement needs with our broker partners including payment/performance bonds, builder’s risk, CCIP, etc.
• Facilitate corporate and project insurance renewals with business and broker partners
Qualifications and Requirements:
• College education, paralegal certificate or equivalent legal education preferred
• 3—5 years of commercial construction risk management experience, preferably in-house
• Familiarity with construction contracts and legal terminology, including AIA and DBIA
• Working knowledge of construction related insurance policies and concepts: Gen Liability, Worker’s Compensation, Auto, Property including Builder’s Risk
• Experience supporting litigation and claims management processes
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and legal document management systems
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
Physical Requirements
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Flexibility to work outside of regular business hours as needed (rare)
• Ability to read and comprehend written materials, including emails and company policies
• Ability to hear and understand verbal instructions and conversations
BENEFITS:
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Family Medical Leave
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Career development and growth opportunities
Salary is commensurate with experience, together with a competitive benefits package. Join us for a more collaborative approach to the built environment. Qualified candidates should submit their resume, cover letter, and a list of projects you previously worked on.