Senior Counsel

CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. 

Our Vision: Our vision is to become the most admired utility in the United States through the execution of our long-term growth strategy. We have an unwavering commitment to safely and reliably deliver electricity and natural gas to millions of people. 

Our Commitment: CenterPoint Energy is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where business results are achieved through the skills, abilities and talents of our diverse workforce.

At CenterPoint Energy, individuals are respected for their contributions toward our company objectives. We strive for an inclusive work environment across all levels that is reflective of the available workforce in the communities we serve. 

Job Summary

The Senior Commercial Counsel – EPC will handle legal matters related to complex commercial transactions focusing on engineering, procurement, and construction (“EPC”) transactions and assisting with the development of the Company’s EPC strategy. This includes providing expertise to the Company on sophisticated EPC agreements and drafting and negotiating such agreements. The Senior Counsel will support all phases of project development and execution, conduct transactional risk assessments, and develop and implement training for the Company. This role will collaborate with the Company's corporate, supply chain, and operational teams to support business transactions while mitigating risks. Additionally, the Senior Counsel will contribute to the Company’s $52.5 billion 10-year capital plan.

Essential Functions

• Provide expertise and thought leadership on EPC agreements.
• Conduct thorough reviews and negotiations of a wide range of commercial contracts, with a primary focus on large-scale EPC agreements.
• Provide legal guidance throughout the project lifecycle, from development and financing to construction and operation, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and regulatory requirements.
• Identify potential legal and commercial risks in EPC arrangements and develop mitigation strategies to protect Company’s interests.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand business objectives and provide timely, practical legal advice.
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial agreements, ensuring alignment with company policies and risk tolerance.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and changes in relevant laws and regulations to proactively address potential legal issues.
• Develop and deliver training programs to internal teams on legal and compliance matters related to EPC
• Participate in the development and implementation of internal policies and procedures to enhance legal and compliance processes.

Education Description

Bachelor’s degree and a J.D. (Doctor of Jurisprudence) degree required from an accredited law school.

Experience

• Requires a minimum of ten (10) years of experience as a commercial counsel, with a primary focus on EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) transactions.
• In-depth knowledge of EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) contracts.
• Experience with project implementation support and the commercial issues that arise on construction projects, such as warranty issues, liens, force majeure, and the variety of reasons for changes in scope or schedule.
• Excellent negotiation, drafting, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Experience in energy, including renewables, or utilities is a plus, as well as a willingness to work on pro bono matters.

We want you to know
Being a part of the CenterPoint Energy team is more than a career alone. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact. You will be an integral part of enabling everyday life and the pursuit of possibilities for the customers we serve and the communities we share. The vital services we provide are at the core of making our world work, and by sharing your energy with us, we'll create a better tomorrow together. 
 

What we bring to you

• Competitive pay
• Paid training
• Benefits eligibility begins on your first day
• Transit subsidies
• Flexible work schedule, paid holidays and paid time off
• Access to discounts at fitness clubs and an on-site wellness center at our headquarters in Houston
• Professional growth and development programs including tuition reimbursement
• 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match dollar-for-dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of your contribution

Job Type: Full Time 
Posting Start Date: 07/01/2025​
Posting End Date: 07/11/2025

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a), and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

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