About the Firm
This is an opportunity to develop a genuinely rounded construction practice within a national firm whose Manchester team handles both transactional work and complex disputes. The practice advises across the lifecycle of construction and engineering projects, acting for developers, funders, contractors, subcontractors and consultants on matters in the UK and internationally. With particular strength across energy and infrastructure alongside work in sectors including transport, social housing and the wider built environment, the team offers junior lawyers exposure to an unusually broad mix of project work and dispute resolution.
The Opportunity
- Work across a genuine mix of transactional and contentious construction and engineering matters, developing experience on both sides of the practice.
- Support clients throughout the project lifecycle, from procurement and contract negotiation through to issues arising during live projects and the resolution of disputes.
- Assist with drafting, reviewing and negotiating construction documentation including building and engineering contracts, consultant appointments, warranties and other project documents.
- Gain exposure to EPC contracts and construction matters arising from energy and infrastructure projects.
- Work on disputes involving delay and extensions of time, payment and valuation issues, loss and expense, defects and termination.
- Assist with adjudications and enforcement proceedings, litigation, mediation and other forms of dispute resolution.
- Work with a varied client base spanning developers, funders, contractors, subcontractors, consultants and other organisations operating throughout the construction industry.
- Build experience across a range of sectors including energy, infrastructure, transport, social housing and technically complex engineering projects.
- Develop alongside experienced Manchester construction partners whose expertise spans both transactional construction and significant construction and engineering disputes.
The Ideal Candidate
- A qualified solicitor with 1-4 years’ PQE and experience in construction and engineering law.
- A background in contentious construction, non-contentious construction or a mixture of both.
- An interest in developing a broader practice spanning transactional and disputes work.
- Strong drafting, analytical and communication skills.
- Comfortable working with detailed contractual and technical issues.
- Able to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues.
- Keen to develop their expertise within a specialist construction and engineering practice.
What’s on Offer
- An attractive salary and benefits package.
- A rare opportunity at junior level to build experience across both transactional and contentious construction work, rather than being confined to one discipline.
- Exposure to complex construction and engineering matters for a diverse national and international client base.
- The chance to develop experience in growth areas including energy and infrastructure projects.
- Close involvement with experienced partners and specialists within the Manchester and wider national Construction team.
- A strong platform to develop a broad construction and engineering practice and progress your career within an expanding team.
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CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING ASSOCIATE (CONTENTIOUS & TRANSACTIONAL) | 1-4 PQE | MANCHESTER employer: QC Legal
QC Legal is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have the opportunity to mentor junior lawyers and engage in meaningful projects that shape the construction landscape. The flexible hybrid working model ensures a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking both personal and career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CONSTRUCTION & ENGINEERING ASSOCIATE (CONTENTIOUS & TRANSACTIONAL) | 1-4 PQE | MANCHESTER
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like QC Legal, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to QC Legal specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at QC Legal
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with QC Legal, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like QC Legal value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
