Legal Counsel - Business Operations

The OpportunityAt Canadian Natural, we are dedicated to driving innovation and excellence in the energy sector. As a recognized leader in Canada’s energy industry, we operate one of the strongest and most diversified asset portfolios of any independent energy producer in the world.
Job DescriptionThe OpportunityAt Canadian Natural, we are dedicated to driving innovation and excellence in the energy sector. As a recognized leader in Canada’s energy industry, we operate one of the strongest and most diversified asset portfolios of any independent energy producer in the world.
Canadian Natural is seeking an experienced oil & gas commercial lawyer to join its dynamic and collaborative team. Reporting to the Manager, Legal - Business Operations, the Legal Counsel will provide strategic, practical, and timely legal support to internal business teams. This role requires strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills, along with the ability to work both autonomously and in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. The successful candidate will consistently deliver high-quality work, meet deadlines, and demonstrate a strong work ethic.
Job location: Calgary, Alberta
Work schedule: 5 x 2, 8-hour shifts
Safety sensitive position: No
Application deadline: November 29, 2026
Key Accountabilities
Provide legal support and analysis to Canadian Natural’s Joint Ventures, Mineral Land, and Surface Land departments, as well as other commercial teams in accordance with established Canadian Natural practices and objectives
Identify, assess, and clearly communicate legal and commercial risks to internal stakeholders to support effective decision-making
Review, analyze, interpret, and draft a wide range of contracts and legal documents
Support commercial teams in partner and counterparty negotiations, primarily in commercial disputes and joint venture arrangements
Advise and support Mineral Land & Surface Land teams on lease interpretation, landowner matters, and related commercial issues
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop practical and commercially focused solutions that balance legal risk with business priorities
What You Bring To The Role
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD), with eligibility or active membership in the Law Society of Alberta
8 - 12 years of relevant legal practice, preferably with a focus on Energy and/or Oil & Gas matters
Demonstrated experience drafting, reviewing, interpreting, and advising on a broad range of legal agreements and documents
Experience negotiating and managing complex commercial relationships and third-party agreements
Sound legal judgment and strong business acumen, with the ability to balance legal risk while supporting both short- and long-term business objectives
Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide practical, business-focused legal advice on complex matters
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with a track record of building effective relationships across business units
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-past environment
What We Offer
Competitive salary, stock options, company matched stock savings plan, annual bonuses
May be eligible for relocation pursuant to Canadian Natural’s Relocation Policy
100% Employer paid extended Health, Dental and Vision Benefits
Health & Wellness Spending Account
Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community
Employee & Family Assistance Program
Access to online learning platforms for continuous learning and development
Paid vacation and time off during Christmas week and summer Fridays
Check out our COMPENSATION & BENEFITS to learn more about what we have to offer!
About UsWe are proud to be ranked as one of Forbes' Canada's Best Employers in 2025 and 2026.
We invest in your career through offering a culture that focuses on developing people, working together and doing it right, with fun and integrity.
Industry Leader:We commenced business in 1989 with a handful of employees and modest production, but today we employ more than 10,000 people and produce over 1 million BOE/d.
Community Investment:Social responsibility is a critical element of our commitment to responsible operations and part of our success and pride as a Company. We are committed to investing in the communities where we live and work, creating shared value along the way.
Compensation and Benefits:We strive to share Company success with all employees through a comprehensive total compensation package.
Our People, Our Stories:Our stories demonstrate the strong culture that exists at Canadian Natural – one that focuses on developing people, working together and doing it right, with fun and integrity.
Check out some of our Employee Testimonials !
All candidates applying to Canadian Natural must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.
While we appreciate all applications we receive, kindly note only candidates under consideration will be contacted.
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