Government Contracts Associate

The Firm An elite international law firm is seeking a junior to mid-level Associate to join its highly regarded Government Contracts & Public Procurement team in Washington, DC. The firm is recognised globally for its market-leading legal work, collaborative culture, and commitment to professional development, consistently earning top rankings across major legal directories and industry publications. The Government Contracts practice advises clients across a broad range of industries on complex federal, state, and local procurement matters. The team is known for handling sophisticated, high-stakes government contracts work for leading companies operating in highly regulated sectors. What You Will Be Doing * Advise clients on procurement strategy, pre-award counselling, and competitive bidding processes. * Support bid protests before government agencies and federal courts. * Handle contract disputes, claims, negotiations, and performance-related issues. * Assist with internal investigations and government enforcement matters. * Counsel clients on compliance with federal and state procurement laws and regulations. * Advise on cybersecurity requirements and government contractor compliance obligations. * Support technology licensing and commercial agreements involving government customers. * Conduct government contracts due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, financings, and other corporate transactions. * Work directly with clients on complex, high-profile matters at the intersection of government contracting, technology, and regulation. * Collaborate with leading practitioners on nationally significant engagements and cutting-edge legal issues. What You Will Have * 1-4 years of government contracts experience gained at a leading law firm, government agency, or in-house legal department * Strong drafting, analytical, and advocacy skills * Excellent academic credentials * Admission to the District of Columbia Bar, or eligibility to waive into the DC Bar * A genuine interest in developing a long-term career within a premier government contracts practice Why Join? * Work alongside nationally recognised government contracts lawyers on high-profile matters * Transparent and structured career progression with clear expectations at every level * Robust mentoring and sponsorship programmes designed to support long-term success * Dedicated career development resources focused on leadership, business development, networking, and professional growth * Collaborative, inclusive culture with meaningful opportunities for client contact and responsibility * Market-leading compensation and comprehensive benefits package * Industry-leading parental leave and family support benefits * Flexible time away and reduced-hours arrangements * Comprehensive wellbeing programme, including mental health and wellness resources * Strong commitment to pro bono work and community engagement If you are looking to build your career within a nationally recognised Government Contracts practice while working on some of the most sophisticated procurement matters in the market, please get in touch for an exploratory confidential conversation.