General Counsel

Company Overview

Nevados is the premier solar tracker company for PV power plants built on sloped and rolling terrain. We offer innovative all-terrain trackers paired with a comprehensive software suite in an integrated technology platform that optimizes solar performance, improves plant reliability and respects the natural landscape. Headquartered in Oakland and backed by institutional capital, Nevados is transforming utility-scale PV deployment with our tracking solutions and partnership approach.

Nevados is a distributed organization with many team members working remotely, while other roles require an in office and on-site presence. Specifics of the work location, travel expectations and other role requirements are outlined in the position overview. Ideal candidates are self-starters who are able to direct and manage their time wisely.

Position Overview

As the General Counsel at Nevados, you will serve as a trusted advisor to company leadership and team members, providing expert legal counsel on a wide range of matters critical to the organization's success. Your responsibilities will encompass a diverse array of legal functions, including but not limited to intellectual property (IP) law, capitalization (CAP) table and employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) management, contract negotiation and drafting, Master Service Agreements (MSAs), employment law advisement, and more.

Location: This is a hybrid role and candidates will ideally be based in the Bay Area with availability to be at our HQ in Oakland to collaborate with our executive team as needed. Remote applicants in other locations may be considered, pending experience and fit.

Responsibilities

• Executive Partnership

• Partner with leadership and advise in high level decision making.

• Manage and oversee external legal counsel as needed.

• Provide legal training and guidance to internal teams on relevant legal issues.

• Intellectual Property (IP) Management

• Develop and implement strategies for protecting the company's intellectual property rights.

• Develop and lead training for internal teams on IP and export control

• Conduct trademark, patent, and copyright searches and filings.

• Manage IP licensing agreements and disputes.

• Contract Drafting and Negotiation

• Draft, review and negotiate various contracts including construction contracts, MSAs, supply contracts, subcontracts, employment contracts, and other legal documents.

• Negotiate terms and conditions with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure the company's interests are protected.

• Capitalization (CAP) Tables and ESOPs

• Manage and maintain CAP tables to accurately reflect ownership stakes.

• Provide legal support for the administration and implementation of ESOPs.

• Employment Law and Compliance (Preferred)

• Advise on employment-related matters including hiring and termination.

• Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws and regulations.

• Assist in the development and implementation of corporate policies and procedures to mitigate legal risks.

• Immigration Law (Preferred, not required)

• Assist with immigration matters including visa applications, work permits, and compliance issues.

• Stay updated on changes in immigration laws and regulations.

• Legal Compliance and Risk Management

• Monitor legal and regulatory developments relevant to the company's operations.

• Identify and mitigate legal risks to the company.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

• Admitted to practice law in California.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience practicing law, preferably in a corporate legal environment.

• Strong background in intellectual property law, with experience in trademark, copyright, and patent matters.

• Experience in construction contract law is preferred.

• Proficiency in drafting and negotiating various contracts, including MSAs.

• Sound knowledge of employment law

• Some understanding of immigration law desirable.

• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

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

• High level of integrity and professionalism.

$150,000 - $220,000 a year

Actual base salary may vary depending on job-related factors, which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location.

Benefits & Total Compensation Package

Nevados offers competitive base salary, bonus, and equity commensurate with qualifications and experience. Full time employees are provided medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life insurance, and unlimited PTO, with additional benefit offerings as we continue to grow.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated as a requirement of the role, candidates must be willing to travel at least 10-20% of the time for company off-sites, conferences, trade shows, site visits, and other potential events as needed.

Don't meet every qualification listed in the job posting above? Apply anyways! Nevados is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to building a more inclusive ecosystem that integrates women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups into the cleantech sector and the overall tech industry. We strongly encourage applications from qualified individuals and members of underrepresented groups, even if your past experience doesn't align perfectly. You might be a fit for this role or another open position.