General Counsel - The Reserves Network : Job Details

General Counsel | $250K+ DOE | Direct Hire | Central rural Nebraska

What Matters Most

• Competitive base annual salary DOE, plus bonus eligibility
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm
• Location: Kearney, Nebraska (with relocation assistance available)
• Opportunity to build an inhouse legal department
• Bonus potential up to 25% of base pay tied to company profitability and plant performance

Job Description

Our manufacturing client is seeking General Counsel to lead its legal function and serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership. This is a unique opportunity to build and shape the company's in-house legal capabilities from the ground up. The General Counsel will oversee contracts, compliance, employment matters, and regulatory issues, while partnering with outside counsel as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Provide legal guidance to executives and leaders across the organization on contracts, compliance, employment, and regulatory issues.
• Review, draft, and negotiate a wide range of agreements including vendor, supply, and customer contracts.
• Build internal processes and systems for managing compliance with corporate governance, environmental, and industry regulations.
• Develop strategies to identify and mitigate legal risks, protecting the company's long-term interests.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school; active bar license in Nebraska or ability to obtain.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of legal experience, ideally combining law firm and in-house counsel backgrounds.
• Strong foundation in industrial, agricultural, or manufacturing law preferred.
• Experience advising on contract law, compliance programs, and employment matters.
• High level of professionalism, judgment, and accountability; able to operate independently with minimal oversight.
• Ties to Nebraska or the Midwest region.

Benefits and Perks:

• Base salary $250K+ annually
• Annual bonus up to 25% of base pay
• 401(k) with employer match
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Relocation assistance (average 10% of base salary)

Your New Organization

A Nebraska-based manufacturer operating multiple plants for 20+ years with more than 185 employees. Company is growing steadily and is known for its strong leadership, financial success, and commitment to its employees and community. The culture emphasizes accountability, collaboration, and a fast-paced, entrepreneurial spirit.

Your Career Partner

The Reserves Network, a veteran-founded and family-owned company, specializes in connecting exceptional talent with rewarding opportunities. With extensive industry experience, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals and shine in your field. The Reserves Network values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. As an equal-opportunity employer, we foster an environment of respect, integrity, and trust in every aspect of employment. The base salary range for this position is excluding benefits, bonuses, or other compensation. Your final salary will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, location, and internal pay equity. Please note, hiring at the top of the range is uncommon to allow room for future salary growth.