Job Title: General Counsel

Location: Chicago, IL
Department: General and Administrative
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: President/General Manager
Salary Range:  

Position Summary:

The General Counsel serves as The Belt Railway Company of Chicago’s chief legal officer and strategic advisor, overseeing all legal, regulatory, compliance, labor relations, safety, and risk management functions. This position ensures that the company operates in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, while supporting the achievement of business objectives through sound legal and strategic counsel.

Key Responsibilities:

Legal Leadership & Strategy

• Act as a strategic advisor to the President/General Manager and executive team on all legal, business, and regulatory matters.
• Lead and manage all legal operations, including daily functions and oversight of internal and external legal resources.
• Oversee contract management including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating vendor, commercial, and employment agreements.
• Represent the company in legal proceedings and manage outside counsel relationships.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Develop and implement regulatory compliance programs to meet federal, state, and local requirements.
• Manage company insurance policies and renewals (e.g., property, liability, D&O) to ensure optimal coverage and cost efficiency.
• Oversee risk management functions, including security of infrastructure, incident investigation training, and claims management.

Labor Relations & Human Resources

• Lead collective bargaining and labor negotiations with all company unions.
• Serve as final appeal officer in union-related disputes.
• Supervise the Human Resources department, ensuring alignment with legal and organizational standards.

Safety & Security

• Provide legal and strategic support for company safety initiatives and compliance with Department of Homeland Security directives.
• Act as liaison to emergency responders and community leaders across jurisdictions where the company operates.

Qualifications:

Education & Licensure

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in Illinois (or ability to obtain promptly).

Experience

• 6–10 years of legal experience with a strong focus in contract law, labor/employment law, compliance, litigation, and risk management.
• Prior experience in the railroad, transportation, or logistics industry highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to lead people and drive results.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• High ethical standards with the ability to balance legal integrity and business needs.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
• Knowledge of labor law, FELA claims, regulatory compliance, and incident investigations.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Must be able to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends as needed.
• Some travel may be required.
• Occasional exposure to outdoor environments and railroad conditions (noise, fumes, uneven surfaces).

Additional Notes:

The General Counsel must be a strategic thinker, proactive problem solver, and team-oriented leader committed to supporting the company’s mission and operational excellence.