At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise clients on planning and environmental matters in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Join one of Scotland’s leading planning teams with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Access to high-quality training, clear career progression, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Inclusive team culture with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Work on high-profile cases and make a real impact in planning law.
- Qualifications: Up to 5 years’ PQE in planning and environmental law with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 55000 € per year.
Ready to accelerate your planning law career with one of Scotland’s leading planning teams? We’re looking for a Solicitor - Senior Solicitor (up to 5 PQE) to join our top-ranked Planning and Environment team in Edinburgh or Glasgow. If you’re driven to be the best in the market and looking for opportunities to grow your career, we want to hear from you.
You will advise a diverse client base across both contentious and non-contentious planning and environmental matters. The team is involved in high-profile, complex work spanning key sectors such as renewable energy, energy infrastructure, housebuilding, retail and leisure, and major commercial developments.
The team also works on some of the most high-profile planning litigation in Scotland, led by Solicitor Advocate Alasdair Sutherland who is regarded as one of Scotland’s top contentious planning lawyers. You would be part of an inclusive and collaborative team culture with access to high-quality training and clear career progression opportunities.
We are seeking a motivated, commercially aware solicitor with up to 5 years’ PQE in planning and environmental law, who thrives in a collaborative environment and brings strong technical ability, excellent communication skills, a proactive, organised and solutions-focused approach, along with resilience, attention to detail, and pride in delivering high-quality work.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, apply now!
Full details can also be found in our job specification.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss this opportunity in more detail, please contact Rhona.McKelvie@burnesspaull.com or call 0141 273 6877.
Burness Paull reserves the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications are received for this role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Closing Date: 28 May 2026
Solicitor - Senior Solicitor (up to 5 PQE) | Planning in Edinburgh employer: Burness Paull
Burness Paull is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth. With access to high-quality training and the opportunity to work on high-profile planning litigation in Scotland, employees are empowered to excel in their careers while contributing to impactful projects across various sectors. Located in the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, the firm provides a stimulating environment for solicitors looking to advance their expertise in planning and environmental law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor - Senior Solicitor (up to 5 PQE) | Planning in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning law field, attend industry events, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. We want you to show genuine interest in their work, especially in areas like renewable energy and major commercial developments. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a solicitor, clear and effective communication is key. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for motivated individuals like you who are ready to take the next step in their planning law career.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor - Senior Solicitor (up to 5 PQE) | Planning in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your experience in planning and environmental law. Highlight relevant cases or projects you've worked on, and don't forget to showcase your technical skills and attention to detail!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about planning law and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a solicitor, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly and effectively. This will show us that you can thrive in our collaborative environment.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications, so get your materials in as soon as you can through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Burness Paull
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on the latest developments in planning and environmental law. Be prepared to discuss recent cases or legislation that could impact your potential role. This shows your passion for the field and that you’re proactive about staying informed.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a solicitor, strong communication is key. Practice articulating complex legal concepts clearly and concisely. During the interview, use examples from your experience where effective communication made a difference in your work.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role emphasises collaboration, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight your ability to contribute positively to team dynamics and how you’ve supported colleagues in achieving common goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you’ll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare insightful queries about the team’s current projects or the firm’s approach to professional development. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the firm is the right fit for you.
