At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a top planning team working on major UK infrastructure projects.
- Company: Leading UK law firm with a stellar reputation in planning and development.
- Benefits: Collaborative culture, career growth, and involvement in high-profile projects.
- Other info: Dynamic team with opportunities across various sectors including energy and transport.
- Why this job: Shape Scotland's future while advancing your legal career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 3+ years PQE in planning law or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
If you want to work on the projects shaping the future of Scotland and the wider UK — while building your career within one of the most respected planning teams in the market — this is an opportunity worth serious consideration.
I’m working with a leading UK law firm with a standout reputation in planning, infrastructure and compulsory purchase work. Following continued growth and a significant increase in client demand, the Edinburgh team is looking to appoint planning lawyers across a range of experience levels to support an expanding and high-profile workload.
This is not a narrow or purely regional planning role. The team operates as one integrated national practice, advising on some of the UK’s most significant development and infrastructure projects while offering lawyers the opportunity to play a visible and meaningful role from the outset.
The practice advises both private and public sector clients across the full development lifecycle, from early consenting strategy and regulatory planning advice through to project delivery and dispute resolution where required. Its lawyers are trusted advisers on major planning and compulsory purchase matters and are recognised for delivering commercially focused, strategic advice on complex projects.
Applications are welcomed from lawyers with experience in any combination of town and country planning, development consenting, compulsory purchase and compensation, EIA and HRA matters, inquiries and examinations, or judicial review. The team is open-minded in its approach and values varied experience, welcoming applications from those currently in private practice as well as lawyers with local authority or in-house backgrounds.
The quality and variety of work are a major draw. Lawyers in the Edinburgh team are involved in nationally significant projects spanning energy, transport, utilities and the built environment, working on matters that are often politically sensitive, technically challenging and commercially important.
Recent and ongoing work includes major renewable energy developments, onshore and offshore wind projects, large-scale solar, pumped storage hydro, carbon capture initiatives, nuclear and interconnector developments, pipeline and water infrastructure, transport and rail projects, data centres, and large-scale redevelopment and regeneration schemes.
What sets this opportunity apart is the balance between top-tier work and a genuinely collaborative environment. You will be part of a highly regarded team where lawyers are encouraged to take ownership, contribute strategically and build strong client relationships, while benefiting from the support and expertise of experienced colleagues across the wider practice.
The culture is ambitious without being corporate for the sake of it — supportive, collegiate and invested in long-term development. Whether you are looking to deepen your planning specialism, broaden your infrastructure exposure or take the next meaningful step in your career, this role offers the platform and quality of work to do exactly that.
For planning lawyers in Edinburgh seeking market-leading work, high-profile projects and a team with genuine depth and reputation, this is an opportunity that stands out. For a confidential discussion, please contact Neil Campbell at QED Legal.
Planning Associate Solicitor - 3+ PQE employer: qed legal
Join a leading UK law firm renowned for its exceptional planning team, where you will engage in high-profile projects that shape the future of Scotland and the wider UK. With a supportive and collaborative work culture, this role offers significant opportunities for professional growth and development, allowing you to take ownership of your work while benefiting from the expertise of seasoned colleagues. Experience a balance of top-tier work and a collegial environment that values diverse backgrounds and encourages strategic contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Associate Solicitor - 3+ PQE
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and local meet-ups to connect with professionals in the planning and legal sectors. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website where you can highlight your projects, achievements, and any relevant case studies. This gives potential employers a tangible sense of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm’s recent projects and their impact on the community. Tailor your responses to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their work in planning and infrastructure.
✨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 Planning Associate Solicitor - 3+ PQE
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your relevant planning and infrastructure work, and don’t forget to showcase any significant projects you've been involved in!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about planning law and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Experience:Whether you’ve worked in private practice or local authority, make sure to detail your experience with town and country planning, development consenting, and any other relevant areas. We love seeing varied backgrounds!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and helps us get to know you better from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at qed legal
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on your knowledge of planning law, especially in relation to town and country planning, compulsory purchase, and EIA matters. Be prepared to discuss recent developments in these areas and how they might impact the projects you'll be working on.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your relevant experience, whether it's from private practice or local authority work. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, particularly those that involved complex planning issues or significant client interactions.
✨Understand the Firm's Culture
Research the firm's culture and values. They pride themselves on a supportive and collaborative environment, so think about how you can demonstrate your ability to work well in a team and contribute strategically to projects.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the types of projects you'll be involved in, the team's approach to professional development, or how they handle politically sensitive matters.
