Overview

Join to apply for the Legal Counsel role at Zeno Power.

Zeno Power’s mission is to provide clean, plug-and-play power anywhere in the universe. Zeno is developing a next-generation radioisotope power system (RPS) that generates carbon-free, resilient power for decades, utilizing material found in nuclear waste. The technology is light-weight and cost-effective compared to historic RPS, opening up broad market opportunities in space and on Earth. We seek purpose-driven and innovative professionals who are comfortable working in a startup environment. Team members will have a direct impact in enabling commercial and national security missions from the depths of our oceans, to the surface of the moon, and in austere environments on Earth.

Note: This description includes the EEO statement and role details that follow.

Role

Legal Counsel

Zeno is seeking a proactive Legal Counsel to lead the company’s legal and compliance functions and serve as Zeno’s Export Control Officer. You will build scalable processes around export control, corporate governance, and contracting while partnering with leadership and outside counsel to protect critical IP assets. This position reports to the Chief Operating Officer.

In This Role You Will

• Manage corporate governance – draft, review, and negotiate NDAs, teaming agreements, commercial and government contracts (FAR/DFARS), and internal policies; maintain Board minutes and corporate records.
• Own Zeno’s export-control program – serve as Export Control Officer; develop and maintain ITAR/EAR policies, training, licensing, and internal controls.
• Coordinate IP strategy and management with support of outside counsel – oversee Zeno’s intellectual property portfolio, including patent filings, trade secrets, and technology licensing; work closely with technical teams and external counsel to protect core innovations.
• Oversee outside counsel engagements and manage legal spend across IP, corporate, employment, and regulatory matters.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited U.S. law school; active bar admission in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• 4-8 years of practice with direct responsibility in at least two of the following:
  • Export control (ITAR/EAR)
  • Corporate governance
  • Commercial and government contracting
• Proven experience developing or managing an export-compliance program within a technology or hardware-driven organization.
• Strong negotiation, drafting, and communication skills; ability to translate legal risk for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• High ethical standards, sound judgment, and a “builder” mindset suited to a high-growth startup.

Preferred Qualifications

• Defense procurement & FAR/DFARS familiarity (government contracts, OTAs, SBIRs).
• Exposure to nuclear regulation or radiological materials.
• Experience supporting startups, venture-backed companies, or other highly regulated hardware firms.

Job Functions

• Position requires in-office presence in Washington, D.C. (Mt. Vernon/Chinatown) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; remote work is optional on Mondays and Fridays.
• Travel: Travel is required.
• Motor Abilities: Sitting and/or standing for extended periods, bending/stooping, grasping/gripping, fine motor control (hands).
• Physical exertion and/or requirements: Minimal, with ability to safely lift up to 15 pounds.
• Repetitive work: Prolonged.
• Special Senses: Visual and audio focused work.
• Work Conditions: Stairs, typing/keyboard, standard and/or sitting working environment of >8 hrs/day.

Compensation And Benefits

The anticipated salary band for this position is $150,000 – $190,000. The final job level and compensation will be determined by various factors such as a candidate’s relevant work experience, skills, qualifications, certifications, and other business considerations.

In addition to competitive compensation, we offer a generous benefits package, including:

• Stock options
• Flexible paid time off
• 401k plan with employer match
• 16 weeks of paid family leave
• Employer HSA contributions
• Transit benefits
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Relocation assistance
• Dog friendly office

Additional Information

Export Control: Applicants for employment at Zeno Power must be a U.S. person. The term “U.S. Person” means (i) a U.S. citizen or U.S. national; or (ii) any natural person who is a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (i.e., holds a Green Card), as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or as a “protected individual” defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Note: This job description is not a contract and is subject to modification. Zeno Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.