In-House Legal Counsel

Astra Space Operations offers dedicated orbital launch services at low cost-per-launch and manufactures the Astra Spacecraft Engine, one of the industry's leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites. Operating at the intersection of commercial launch, in-space propulsion, and a complex U.S. regulatory environment spanning FAA, ITAR, and EAR, Astra requires substantive in-house legal capability to support its growth trajectory. This In-House Legal Counsel role is a high-visibility, senior position serving as trusted legal adviser to business leaders across engineering, finance, operations, and executive leadership. The portfolio is broad: M&A transactions including due diligence, deal structuring, and post-closing integration; commercial and government/defence contract drafting and negotiation; vendor and supplier agreement management; equity programme administration via Carta; and regulatory compliance across federal aerospace requirements including FAA authorisations, ITAR, EAR, and FAR/DFARS. The role is particularly well-suited to attorneys with a combination of top-tier law firm and in-house experience who are seeking to move into the commercial space sector. The position requires California Bar membership and ITAR eligibility. It offers equity participation alongside a competitive base salary and sits within a mission-driven launch company at an inflection point in its growth.

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school and active California State Bar membership 7-10 years of legal experience, preferably combining top-tier law firm and in-house counsel roles Demonstrated M&A transaction experience including due diligence, drafting, and negotiations Extensive contracts experience across commercial, technology, and/or government/defence agreements Proficiency with Carta for equity management including cap table, option administration, and 409A coordination US Person status required for ITAR compliance Desirable: experience in aerospace, defence, aviation, or a highly regulated technology sector Desirable: familiarity with ITAR, EAR, FAR/DFARS, and FAA regulatory frameworks Desirable: background in securities law, corporate governance, or venture-stage financing transactions