Overview
Commercial Counsel, IP Jobs in Greater Chicago Area at Legal.io
Title: Commercial Counsel, IP
Company: Legal.io
Location: Greater Chicago Area
Commercial Counsel, IP (Contract)
Location: Remote (U.S. – Chicago preferred)
Hours: 20 hours per week
Duration: ~3 months (approx. June 1, 2026 – September 4, 2026)
Compensation: $135–$170/hour
Overview
A leading global consumer products company is seeking an experienced IP Counsel to support its legal team on a part-time contract basis.
This role will focus on commercial transactions with significant intellectual property components, partnering closely with R&D, procurement, and business teams. The ideal candidate brings strong in-house experience and is comfortable operating independently within a collaborative legal environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements with significant IP components, including R&D, joint development, research, trial, material transfer, and supplier agreements
- Negotiate key IP provisions such as ownership, licensing, confidentiality, and indemnification
- Partner with internal stakeholders across R&D, procurement, and business development teams
- Provide practical, business-oriented guidance on IP risk and contract structuring
- Manage and coordinate with outside counsel as needed
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (JD) and active bar membership in good standing
- 7+ years of experience in intellectual property and commercial transactions
- Strong in-house experience, preferably within a consumer products or CPG environment
- Demonstrated experience negotiating complex agreements with significant IP considerations
- Ability to work independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Preferred Experience
- Experience supporting R&D-heavy or innovation-driven business functions
- Background in consumer products, manufacturing, or similar industries
- Familiarity with supplier and procurement-related agreements
Key Attributes
- Practical, business-minded approach to IP and commercial risk
- Strong drafting and negotiation skills
- Ability to operate efficiently in a part-time, high-impact role
Why This Role
- Opportunity to support a global consumer products company on high-value IP matters
- Flexible, part-time engagement with meaningful business impact
- Exposure to R&D, innovation, and strategic commercial initiatives
