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Contracts Manager

Location

Santa Clara, CA (on-site)

Employment Type

Full-time

Department

Marketing

About the Company

Inlighten Technologies is a Silicon Valley startup developing next-generation microLED technologies for augmented reality (AR) and AI-powered smart glasses. Our mission is to push the limits of microLED performance and manufacturing, enabling scalable, mass-market production. Join us to help create the displays that will power the future of immersive computing.

Description

We are seeking a Contracts Manager with a legal background who can immediately contribute to our commercial operations. You will be the cornerstone of contract management, ensuring speed, accuracy, and compliance as we scale relationships with customers and strategic partners across the AR glasses and display ecosystems. This role involves close collaboration with leadership and cross-functional teams (procurement, R&D, business development, and finance) to draft, review, and negotiate contracts that balance business goals with legal and operational safeguards. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced environments, understands technology supply chains, and operates independently with exceptional attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities
  • Draft, review, and negotiate a wide variety of agreements including NDAs, supply agreements, joint development agreements (JDAs), licensing agreements, consulting contracts, and partnership MOUs.
  • Manage the full contract lifecycle, from initial request to execution and renewal tracking.
  • Build and maintain a scalable contract management system.
  • Collaborate with technical and business teams to align contract terms with project timelines, IP considerations, and commercialization strategies.
  • Advise leadership on risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, and contract interpretation.
  • Ensure adherence to company policies, export controls, and confidentiality obligations.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for external counsel and coordinate legal reviews efficiently.
  • Contribute to the development of standardized contract templates and negotiation playbooks for rapid execution.
  • Support due diligence and documentation in fundraising or partnership activities.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Procurement, Law, Supply Chain, Contract Management/Master of Legal Studies, or other relevant field.
  • 5+ years of experience in contract management or corporate/commercial law (in-house startup experience strongly preferred).
  • Proven track record managing technology contracts — ideally in semiconductors, display, or consumer electronics sectors.
  • Strong understanding of IP ownership, licensing, and confidentiality issues in R&D collaborations.
  • Excellent communication and drafting skills; ability to simplify complex legal concepts for technical and business audiences.
  • Organized, proactive, and comfortable working under tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.
  • Familiarity with contract management tools and workflow automation is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
  • JD degree and active license to practice law (California preferred).
  • Previous experience setting up contract management systems.
  • Previous experience in consumer electronics.
  • Understanding of IP nuances and patent law.
Benefits
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Paid holidays and vacation.
  • Employee stock option plan.
Equal Employment Opportunity

Inlighten Technologies is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.