Legal Counsel - Business Operations

The Opportunity: 

At 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!