Associate / Senior Associate (Planning) - 4+ PQE - Bristol

Associate / Senior Associate (Planning) - 4+ PQE - Bristol

Full-Time 63000 - 77000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Chadwick Nott - South West and South Wales

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a top law firm and work on significant planning and infrastructure projects.
  • Company: Nationally recognised law firm with a focus on development and renewable energy.
  • Benefits: High-quality work, flexible working, and strong commitment to wellbeing and inclusion.
  • Other info: Opportunities for career progression and involvement in community initiatives.
  • Why this job: Gain early responsibility and direct client exposure while working with industry leaders.
  • Qualifications: 4+ years PQE in planning law with strong analytical and organisational skills.

The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious Planning Associate or Senior Associate (4+ years PQE) to join a highly ranked Planning & Infrastructure team at a national, Top 100 UK law firm, recognised in The Legal 500 and celebrated for its market‑leading work across development, infrastructure and renewable energy projects. This is a chance to work on some of the most significant and complex developments across England and Wales, advising an impressive client base that includes developers, infrastructure providers, statutory undertakers, local authorities and major energy sector organisations. You’ll be involved in matters spanning the entire development lifecycle, from strategic land promotion and planning strategy through to consenting, implementation and project delivery.

Key areas of work include:

  • Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)
  • Development of National Significance (DNS) projects in Wales
  • Renewable energy developments, including:
    • Solar Battery storage
    • Onshore wind
    • Grid infrastructure
  • Compulsory purchase and land assembly matters
  • Transport and Works Act Orders, including marine‑related projects
  • Planning applications and planning strategy
  • Section 106 agreements and planning obligations
  • Highways and infrastructure agreements
  • Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)
  • Lawful Development Certificates
  • Planning appeals, enforcement, judicial reviews and statutory challenges

You’ll have early responsibility, direct client exposure and the opportunity to take ownership of matters while working alongside recognised experts in the sector. Business development, networking and profile‑raising will also form an important part of the role.

Candidate Requirements

We’re keen to hear from qualified solicitors with:

  • 4+ years' PQE in planning law
  • Experience gained within a national, regional or respected city firm
  • Strong technical knowledge across planning and development matters
  • Excellent drafting, analytical and organisational skills
  • The ability to manage competing priorities and work autonomously
  • A genuine interest in planning, development and infrastructure projects

Experience advising on renewable energy, infrastructure or compulsory purchase matters would be particularly advantageous, however candidates with broader planning experience are also encouraged to apply.

What’s on offer:

  • High‑quality work on nationally significant projects
  • Exposure to market‑leading renewable energy and infrastructure developments
  • Direct access to recognised leaders in the planning sector
  • Genuine opportunities for progression and career development
  • Early client contact and responsibility
  • Flexible and modern ways of working
  • Strong commitment to wellbeing, inclusion and work‑life balance
  • Opportunities to participate in responsible business, community and ESG initiatives

For more information about this role please contact Hannah Somers at Chadwick Nott. (t) 0117 917 1929 (m) 07435 943574 (e) hannahsomers@chadwicknott.co.uk

*At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.*

Associate / Senior Associate (Planning) - 4+ PQE - Bristol employer: Chadwick Nott - South West and South Wales

Chadwick Nott is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the vibrant city of Bristol, where you can thrive both professionally and personally. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, hybrid working arrangements, and a supportive team culture, this role as a Property Litigation Solicitor provides not only competitive remuneration but also the chance to manage a diverse caseload and develop your legal expertise in a collaborative setting.

Chadwick Nott - South West and South Wales

Contact Details:

Chadwick Nott - South West and South Wales Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Associate / Senior Associate (Planning) - 4+ PQE - Bristol

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We think you need these skills to ace Associate / Senior Associate (Planning) - 4+ PQE - Bristol

Planning Law
Development Law
Analytical Skills
Drafting Skills
Organisational Skills
Client Management
Project Delivery

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Chadwick Nott - South West and South Wales, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.

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How to prepare for a job interview at Chadwick Nott - South West and South Wales

Know Your Legal Principles

Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.

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