We are seeking a highly skilled In-House Counsel with a strong background in construction law, liens, and collections to support a multi-entity restoration and construction operation. This role will serve as the primary legal authority for contract enforcement, receivables recovery, and payment dispute resolution while also advising leadership on regulatory and operational risk
The ideal candidate is hands-on, decisive, and comfortable driving outcomes—someone who understands how construction projects, insurance payments, and cash flow intersect. This position offers meaningful influence within the organization
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES: Construction Contracts & Risk Management
Draft, review, negotiate, and enforce construction and restoration contracts, including: Customer and insurance-related agreements | Subcontractor and vendor contracts | Master service agreements, work authorizations, and change orders
Ensure contracts protect lien rights, collection leverage, and payment enforceability
Develop and maintain standardized construction contract templates aligned with state-specific requirements
Advise operations and leadership on contractual risk, scope disputes, and project documentation
Liens, Collections & Receivables Enforcement
Lead all lien-related matters, including: Notice requirements | Filing, enforcement, and foreclosure coordination | Compliance across multiple jurisdictions
Oversee and execute collection strategies from pre-lien through litigation
Draft and manage demand letters, settlement agreements, and payment plans
Handle collection litigation directly or manage outside counsel where appropriate
Partner closely with accounting and operations to improve recovery timelines and reduce aged receivables
Payment Disputes & Negotiation
Act as lead negotiator on payment disputes involving: Property owners | Commercial clients | Insurance carriers and third-party administrators
Resolve scope, pricing, and coverage-related disputes with a focus on maximizing recovery
Advise leadership on dispute prevention strategies and best practices
Regulatory & Business Advisory
Provide legal guidance on construction and restoration regulatory requirements
Advise on general business and HR matters, including: Employment law compliance | Policy development and risk mitigation
Support corporate governance, affiliated entities, and expansion into new markets
Executive & Strategic Support
Serve as a strategic legal advisor to executive leadership
Support growth initiatives, acquisitions, and new business structures
Manage outside counsel relationships to control costs and outcomes
QUALIFICATIONS:
Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
Active license to practice law in Illinois
At least 5+ years of experience in construction law, collections, or commercial litigation
Demonstrated experience with: Construction contracts | Mechanic's liens and lien foreclosure | Collections and payment enforcement
Strong negotiation skills and comfort managing contentious disputes
Practical, business-oriented mindset with the ability to move matters forward
Preferred Experience:
Construction, restoration, or contractor-side representation
Insurance claim or property loss experience
In-house counsel or firm experience supporting construction companies
Multi-state lien and regulatory experience
WHY CHOOSE US:
High-impact role with direct influence on cash flow and risk management
Close collaboration with ownership and executive leadership
Fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
Defined opportunity for partnership based on performance and leadership
contribution
We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are an organization that values diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including minorities and persons with disabilities.