FLSA Classification: Exempt
Position Type: Regular, Full-time
Direct Report: General Counsel
Pay Range - Competitive, with full employer paid benefits. Plus bonus plan.
Dallas, Texas, or satellite office-Houston, Texas
Remote, Hybrid, or Office: Office, with flexibility for remote work as part of regular schedule. Work Eligibility Requirement: Ability to work in U.S. without sponsorship.
The Associate Counsel will support the organization’s energy legal function by assisting the General Counsel in providing legal guidance across corporate, regulatory, and operational matters related to the Company’s geothermal energy exploration and development activities. This role is designed for a developing legal professional who will contribute to contract management, regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and general corporate legal support while gaining hands-on experience in the renewable and geothermal energy sector.
The Associate Counsel plays a key role in helping ensure the Company operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, supports business objectives responsibly, and maintains high ethical standards. This position works closely with internal stakeholders and external advisors and offers meaningful exposure to energy law, corporate governance, and emerging utility-sector regulatory frameworks.
This role may infrequently require travel, including occasional overnight stays for conferences, meetings, or project-related legal support.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The duties listed below represent core responsibilities but are not exhaustive and may evolve as the Company grows. Legal Research & Advisory Support.
Support the General Counsel by conducting legal research and analysis on matters related to corporate law, energy law, regulatory compliance, and risk management. Assist in preparing legal memorandum, summaries, and briefings for internal stakeholders, including executive leadership. Provide day-to-day legal support to internal teams under the supervision of senior legal leadership.
Regulatory Compliance
Monitor and track federal, state, and local regulations applicable to geothermal energy and renewable energy projects. Assist in maintaining compliance with laws and regulations governing land use, water rights, environmental permitting, and energy operations. Support the development and maintenance of internal compliance programs and documentation. Contract Review & Management.
Assist in drafting, reviewing, and revising a variety of contracts, including:
o Master service agreements
o Vendor and supplier agreements
o Independent contractor and consultant agreements
o Access, land-use, and right-of-way agreements
Help ensure contracts align with company policies and adequately protect the organization’s interests.
Support negotiations with vendors, contractors, and partners alongside senior legal leadership.
Government and Agency Support
Assist with review and administration of agreements involving government agencies such as:
o Department of Energy (DOE)
o Department of the Interior (DOI)
o Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Support regulatory filings and correspondence related to land, natural resource use, and environmental approvals.
Litigation & Risk Management Support
Assist the General Counsel in managing litigation matters, including document collection, coordination with outside counsel, and case tracking.
Support internal risk assessments and assist in identifying potential legal exposures.
Participate in insurance and risk management initiatives as assigned.
Corporate & Intellectual Property Support
Assist with corporate governance matters, including entity maintenance, filings, and internal documentation.
Support intellectual property activities, including trademarks, patents, and confidentiality protections, under supervision.
Assist with due diligence and legal support related to financing activities, corporate structuring, and growth initiatives.
Training & Internal Engagement
Assist with the preparation of internal legal training materials on compliance, ethics, and regulatory awareness.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, project management, finance, and operations.
Qualifications, Experience, and Requirements
Required Qualifications
Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year university.
Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Licensed attorney in good standing with the State Bar of Texas (or ability to waive in within a reasonable timeframe).
Preferred Experience
3–6 years of experience in a law firm, in-house legal department, or regulatory-focused legal role.
Exposure to energy, natural resources, infrastructure, environmental law, or regulated industries preferred.
Experience with contract drafting, legal research, and regulatory analysis.
Core Competencies
Legal & Regulatory Knowledge
Foundational knowledge of corporate law and contract law.
Familiarity with environmental and regulatory frameworks impacting energy or infrastructure industries.
Research & Analysis
Strong legal research skills, including the ability to analyze statutes, regulations, case law, and contracts.
Attention to detail in reviewing agreements and compliance documentation.
Technical & Industry Awareness
Willingness to develop a working understanding of geothermal energy technologies and energy production processes.
Soft Skills
Communication
Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to explain legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders. Collaboration & Professionalism.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
High ethical standards and professional integrity.
Problem-Solving & Adaptability
Analytical mindset with a proactive approach to identifying issues and proposing solutions.
Flexibility to adapt in a fast-growing, dynamic corporate environment.
Learning Orientation
Strong desire to grow professionally and expand expertise within the renewable energy and utility sectors.
Physical & Work Requirements
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer.
Ability to perform repetitive computer-based tasks.
Ability to lift up to 10–25 lbs. (files, office materials).
Ability to travel occasionally for business purposes, including overnight stays.
Ability to attend meetings both in-person and virtually.
Must pass pre-employment drug/alcohol testing and criminal background check.
Fluency in English, written and verbal.
Willingness to work extended hours as needed during peak project periods.
TO APPLY - Please forward resume/CV to Donald Hinton at dhinton@pailingroup.com
pailingroup.com
