At a Glance
- Tasks: Draft and negotiate construction documentation while advising on legal matters.
- Company: Join Mott MacDonald, a global leader in engineering consultancy.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible leave, and health perks.
- Other info: Flexible work options and excellent career development opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in infrastructure law with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in construction law and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Mott MacDonald is a global engineering consultancy.
Our Group Legal Department is an in‑house team based in Croydon, UK. We are expanding and seek a proactive Legal Counsel to support the Regional General Counsel – EUNA and senior legal counsels. The role focuses primarily on our infrastructure consultancy business, while also supporting other regions such as North America, the Middle East and Asia Pacific.
Key responsibilities and duties:
- Draft, review, and negotiate construction documentation including consultancy agreements, construction contracts, framework agreements, collateral warranties, novation deeds, and parent company guarantees.
- Identify departures from governance and assist project teams in obtaining internal approvals.
- Advise the business on applicable laws and regulations.
- Revise and maintain legal templates and guidance.
- Advise on litigation and insurance matters, liaising with outside counsel and technical experts as needed.
- Support Ethics & Compliance and Privacy & Data Protection teams on construction related issues.
- Occasional travel to Croydon Head Office (approx. twice per month).
Candidate specification:
- England and Wales qualified solicitor with extended PQE (qualification in other common law jurisdictions accepted).
- Significant experience in construction law, in either private practice or in‑house for a major contractor, engineer or architect.
- Expertise in negotiating and drafting construction documentation as a qualified lawyer.
- Knowledge of construction disputes and insurance (desirable).
- Strong analytical, legal knowledge, and communication skills.
- Ability to multitask, problem solve, and balance competing priorities.
- Strong stakeholder communication – confident presentation to senior management.
- Independent work style with ability to collaborate within a team.
UK Immigration: We do not currently sponsor Skilled Worker visas. We welcome applications from candidates eligible for alternative immigration routes that do not require sponsorship.
Benefits:
- Financial wellbeing – pension match, life assurance, income protection, flexible benefits, bonus schemes.
- Health and wellbeing – private medical insurance, health cash plan, wellness programmes, flexible salary adjustment for health benefits.
- Work‑life balance – minimum 33‑35 days holiday (35 after 5 years), public holidays included, flexible leave options.
- Family and carers – enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave, shared parental leave, additional caring responsibility days.
- Learning and development – professional subscriptions, mentoring, formal training and self‑development programmes.
- Networks and communities – access to diverse employee networks and corporate social impact initiatives.
Location(s): London, Croydon, Manchester, Cambridge, Bristol, Reading, Birmingham, Brighton, Leeds.
Contract Type: Permanent | Work Pattern: Full Time | Job Ref: 14854 | Discipline: Legal
Legal Counsel in Reading employer: Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Croydon that fosters professional growth and collaboration within its expanding Group Legal Department. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, the company provides generous benefits including flexible leave options, extensive holiday allowances, and opportunities for continuous learning and development, making it an ideal place for legal professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in infrastructure consultancy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in construction law. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills. Since you'll be drafting and reviewing contracts, be ready to discuss your approach to handling complex agreements and any challenges you've faced.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance, share examples of your previous work in construction law during interviews. This will help us see how you can add value to our team at Mott MacDonald.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Legal Counsel role. Highlight your experience in construction law and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Mention specific experiences that relate to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:As a Legal Counsel, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to present complex legal concepts clearly. We love seeing candidates who can communicate effectively with stakeholders!
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 on joining our team at Mott MacDonald!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mott MacDonald
✨Know Your Construction Law
Make sure you brush up on your construction law knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with key terms and recent developments in the field, as well as Mott MacDonald's specific projects. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific legal scenarios related to construction documentation or disputes. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated similar situations. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Legal Counsel, you'll need to communicate complex legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with senior management or project teams in the past. Practising this will help you convey your ideas confidently during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers. Inquire about the company's approach to compliance and ethics in construction projects or how they handle disputes. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
