At a Glance
- Tasks: Support solicitors on live legal matters and develop practical legal skills.
- Company: Join Neath Port Talbot Council's dynamic Legal Services team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holiday, and excellent development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working and a supportive environment for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local communities while building your legal career.
- Qualifications: Must meet SRA requirements and possess strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 27694 - 31022 £ per year.
Details of the job are provided below. Further information is available in the Job Description and Person Specification.
Job reference: REQ05790
Date posted: 29/07/2026
Application closing date: 06/08/2026
Location: Port Talbot Civic Centre
Salary: £27,694 - £31,022 Per Annum
Package: Generous holiday entitlement, Employee Assistance Programme, Local Government Pension Scheme with 22.4% employer contributions, discounted gym membership with Celtic Leisure and excellent development opportunities
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time
Job category/type: Legal
Working Style: Your workstyle will be a mobile hybrid worker in this role which gives you the flexibility to work from home and from a variety of Council workplaces.
We are looking for a motivated and ambitious future lawyer to join our Legal Services team as a Trainee Solicitor. This is a fantastic opportunity to build a legal career in the public sector, working on matters that genuinely make a difference to local communities across Wales. Our Legal Services team sits at the heart of the Council, advising on everything from governance and contracts to regeneration projects, employment law and litigation.
You will gain hands‑on experience across a wide range of legal areas, supported by experienced solicitors who are committed to developing the next generation of public sector lawyers. As one colleague says, “You’re trusted with real work from day one, but you’re always supported to learn and grow.”
As a Trainee Solicitor, you will support solicitors on live legal matters, develop practical legal skills, and gain a strong understanding of how law underpins democratic decision‑making and public service delivery. Your day‑to‑day work will typically include legal research and drafting, assisting with case files and transactions, liaising with Council officers, attending meetings, preparing legal documents, and maintaining accurate case records.
About you:
- The ability to meet the SRA requirements for entry to a training contract, including successful completion of an SRA‑approved Legal Practice Course
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain legal issues clearly
- The ability to work effectively as part of a team in a busy, fast‑paced environment
- Good organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines
- A practical and solution‑focused approach to problem‑solving
- An awareness of public sector ethics, equality, and professional standards
About us:
We believe in rewarding and recognising our colleagues’ efforts and achievements. We also believe that there’s life at work and life outside of work. We want everyone to be healthy and happy and have the financial resources and support they need. Choose to work for us and you’ll be rewarded with a range of attractive benefits and support to help you live your best life.
- Hybrid working (in some roles) and flexible working schemes to improve your work life balance
- Benefit from a competitive employee package with a remarkable 15.3% employer pension contribution
- Enjoy a holiday entitlement of 25 days, increasing to 32 days after 5 years’ service (not forgetting the additional 8 bank holidays too)
- Access discounted gym membership with Celtic Leisure
- Utilise the cycle to work scheme with up to 40% off bikes and cycling equipment
- Purchase a new car through Tusker salary sacrifice scheme
- Enjoy exclusive discounts at local and national retailers with the Smart Spend app through our staff wellbeing group.
DBS requirements: This post is not subject to a DBS check.
Welsh Language Requirements: Welsh Language skills are desirable.
Additional Information: Applications may be submitted in Welsh, applications submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who have a disability and armed forces veterans. In support of employees of Tata Steel who are at risk of redundancy, or have been made redundant in 2024, Neath Port Talbot Council is offering a guaranteed interview for jobs across the Council. Please note that applicants must meet all the essential criteria, as shown in the person specification, to qualify for a guaranteed interview. If you are or going to be affected by the job losses at Tata Steel then we would welcome an application from you. Just make it known on your application form that you are currently at risk of redundancy or you have been made redundant.
At Team NPT, we all work together to serve the people, communities and businesses of Neath Port Talbot. We are committed to providing training opportunities and the professional development of all our employees. We look forward to welcoming you to Team NPT.
Trainee Solicitor in Port Talbot employer: NPT Pass
NPT Pass is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and community service in the heart of Neath Port Talbot. Employees benefit from comprehensive training, generous holiday allowances, and a robust pension scheme, ensuring both personal and professional growth opportunities. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a fulfilling career in local government facilities management.
