At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to tackle complex construction disputes and provide strategic advice.
- Company: Reputable law firm specialising in construction, engineering, and 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 on high-value projects and build strong client relationships.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in contentious construction work preferred.
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.
- 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.
- Client service
- Integrity and respect
- Interpersonal skills
- Delivery focus
NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects employer: Charles Russell Speechlys
Join a prestigious full-service construction law team in London, where you will have the opportunity to work on high-value projects and complex disputes for a diverse range of national and international clients. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth, offering significant responsibility and client interaction from day one, while our commitment to integrity and client service ensures a rewarding and meaningful career path in the dynamic field of construction law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects
✨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! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your experience with UK adjudications and TCC litigation. Bring it along to interviews or share it during networking events. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your expertise in construction disputes.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get comfortable with common interview questions related to construction law and dispute resolution. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence and refine your answers. The more prepared you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for our Construction, Engineering & Projects team.
We think you need these skills to ace NQ - 1 PQE Associate - Construction, Engineering & Projects
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 what we do!
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 – we love that!
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’re looking for someone who can connect with clients and colleagues alike!
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 Basics
Make sure you brush up on the fundamentals of construction law, especially around UK adjudications and TCC litigation. Familiarise yourself with key terms and concepts that are relevant to the role, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations related to dispute resolution or contract negotiations. Think through some examples from your past experiences or hypothetical scenarios where you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to manage client expectations.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves significant client contact, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might be asked to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms, so being able to communicate effectively is key. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This position requires collaboration within a cohesive team. Be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively in teams before, highlighting your interpersonal skills and flexibility. Share examples that illustrate your ability to contribute positively to a team environment while also taking initiative when needed.
