NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects in London

NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects in London

London Entry level 50000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Charles Russell Speechlys

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a top-tier team handling complex construction disputes and advisory work.
  • Company: Reputable law firm in London with a focus on construction and engineering projects.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
  • Other info: Dynamic team culture with opportunities for growth and learning.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in high-value cases while building strong client relationships.
  • Qualifications: Qualified solicitor (NQ - 1 PQE) with experience in contentious construction work.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.

We have an opportunity for an NQ to 1 PQE Associate to join our Construction, Engineering & Projects team in London. The team is a highly reputable full‑service construction law team, providing transactional advice through to dispute avoidance and dispute resolution advice relating to large‑scale construction and engineering projects in the UK and internationally. The team is well‑regarded for acting for clients across a wide range of business sectors with a particular emphasis on real‑estate developers, housebuilders, property investment companies, contractors, sub‑contractors and major engineering consultancies.

Our transaction advice includes advising on the procurement of construction projects, all forms of domestic and international construction contracts, and ancillary documentation such as consultant appointments, trade contracts, collateral warranties, parent company guarantees and performance bonds. Core dispute avoidance and dispute resolution services include advising on all forms of dispute resolution (adjudication / arbitration / litigation / mediation / expert determination) and giving strategic advice to clients to ensure that their dispute is resolved in a cost‑effective manner whilst maintaining the best possible outcome.

This is a great opportunity to work across a wide variety of contentious and non‑contentious work streams, with current growth in the contentious work space. We are particularly interested in experience of working on both UK adjudications and Technology and Construction Court (TCC) litigation. The new joiner can be expected to have a significant level of responsibility and client contact.

Roles and Responsibilities
  • Acting for a wide range of national and international clients on complex and high‑value construction disputes, including UK adjudications, arbitrations and TCC litigation.
  • Undertaking dispute advisory work including ADR (for example, mediation).
  • Dealing with a wide range of matters, such as final account and delay claims, quality of build claims, construction insolvency, bond claims, ACM cladding, professional indemnity and other insurance‑related claims.
  • Advising government bodies, sponsors, funders, developers, employers, operators, constructors, subcontractors and professional teams in relation to dispute avoidance and resolution mechanisms, together with project procurement techniques (including facilities management).
  • Working closely with existing clients to maintain and develop relationships, acting as a trusted advisor capable of providing timely and quality advice whilst managing expectations.
  • Working collaboratively as a cohesive team, to execute large‑scale, high‑value, client matters to the highest standard.
  • Assisting with drafting, negotiating and advising on construction contracts, consultant appointments, collateral warranties, financial securities (including bonds and guarantees), letters of intent and reliance letters.
  • Contributing to group knowledge and know‑how initiatives.
  • Complying with all relevant legal and regulatory obligations including the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Standards and Regulations, and Principles.
Skills and Experience
  • Be an England and Wales qualified solicitor at 1 PQE or be due to qualify by September 2026 (NQ).
  • Experience of contentious construction work, and of particular interest, exposure to working on both UK adjudications and/or TCC litigation in the context of fire safety related litigation and/or arbitration or any other forms of dispute avoidance.
  • Confidence in both verbal and written communication with a diverse range of clients.
  • Demonstrate excellent time management skills and stakeholder management.
  • Have the ability to develop effective working relationships at all levels, being able to fit in with the Firm’s culture and the existing team.
  • Able to work effectively, both autonomously and as part of a team as needed.
  • Have a flexible approach and willing to go the extra mile.
Values
  • Client service
  • Integrity and respect
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Delivery focus

NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects in London employer: Charles Russell Speechlys

Join a leading full-service construction law team in London, where you will have the opportunity to work on high-profile projects and complex disputes. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth, offering significant responsibility and client interaction from day one. With a strong emphasis on integrity and client service, we provide a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and development in the dynamic field of construction law.

Charles Russell Speechlys

Contact Details:

Charles Russell Speechlys Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the construction law field. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals for informational chats. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at networking events or interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with UK adjudications and TCC litigation. Tailor your conversations to showcase how your background aligns with their needs.

Tip Number 3

Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to firms you admire, like ours, and express your interest in joining their team. A well-crafted email can go a long way in making a memorable impression.

Tip Number 4

Utilise our website! We often post opportunities that might not be advertised elsewhere. Keep an eye on our careers page and apply directly through it. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out from the crowd.

We think you need these skills to ace NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects in London

Construction Law
Dispute Resolution
Adjudication
Arbitration
Litigation
Mediation
Contract Drafting

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight any relevant experience in construction law, especially if you've worked on UK adjudications or TCC litigation. We want to see how your background fits with our team!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about construction law and how you can contribute to our team. Be genuine and let your personality come through.

Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of client interaction, make sure to demonstrate your verbal and written communication skills in your application. We love candidates who can convey complex ideas clearly and effectively!

Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!

How to prepare for a job interview at Charles Russell Speechlys

Know Your Construction Law

Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and key cases in construction law, especially around UK adjudications and TCC litigation. Being able to discuss recent developments will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your verbal and written communication skills during the interview. You might be asked to explain complex legal concepts simply, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.

Understand Client Needs

Research the types of clients the firm works with, such as real-estate developers and contractors. Be ready to discuss how you would approach their specific needs and how you can add value to their projects.

Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility

Highlight your ability to work collaboratively within a team and your willingness to adapt to different situations. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal.