Associate General Counsel - Lightmatter

We are looking for a strategic, experienced, business oriented, hands-on attorney to lead and run Lightmatter’s contracting function. In this role, you will architect the commercial frameworks that enable the deployment of next generation light-based server connectivity. You will move beyond standard contracts to negotiate complex, high-stakes technical and intellectual property transactions that are critical to our roadmap. If you are a collaborative, innovative professional passionate about tackling complex challenges and making an impact, join us!

How do you stand out? 

You are a "deal architect" with a deep understanding of the semiconductor lifecycle, from R&D to mass production. You don’t just redline contracts - you understand the underlying technology, business dynamics, risk profiles, negotiation timing and can fluidly navigate sophisticated technology transaction structures. You possess the expertise of a top-tier law firm, the practical business acumen of an in-house practitioner in the hardware space, and the situational judgment to understand what really matters in contract negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Contract Lifecycle Management: Drive the full lifecycle of commercial transactions, from initial structuring and term sheet negotiation to execution and post-closing management.
• Draft and Negotiate Commercial Transactions: Own the drafting, negotiation, and management of a wide variety of commercial contracts, including purchase, supply, services, quality and collaboration agreements for high-value hardware and software solutions.
• Lead IP & Technical Transactions: Structure and negotiate intellectual property agreements, including inbound/outbound licensing, joint development agreements, and technology partnerships.
• Strategic Advisory: Partner with engineering, supply chain, product, and sales leadership to address legal risks in commercial engagements and enable pragmatic, business-focused solutions.
• Scale Legal Operations: Create and maintain contract playbooks, templates, negotiation processes and systems to streamline the contracting cycle as the company scales.
• Manage Risk: Advise on license compliance, export control implications, and warranty/indemnity structures specific to the semiconductor and data center industries.

Qualifications

• Experience: A minimum of 10+ years of legal practice, with significant experience drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements.
• Specialized Expertise: Demonstrated mastery of technology and intellectual property transactions, specifically regarding the development, licensing, manufacturing, supply and technical support for semiconductor and hardware designs, tools, technology and products. 
• Education: J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to a state bar in good standing.
• Soft Skills: Strong business acumen with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear guidance for non-legal stakeholders throughout Lightmatter.

Preferred Qualifications

• Industry Background: Prior in-house experience within the semiconductor, hardware, or deep-tech industries is highly preferred.
• Firm Experience: Training and experience at a top-tier law firm.
• Technical Fluency: An undergraduate degree in technical field, or a demonstrated ability to understand semiconductor hardware technologies.