At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Commercial team with contract reviews and negotiations.
- Company: Join a pioneering subsea company that values its talented people.
- Benefits: Full-time, permanent role with competitive salary based on experience.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the underwater industry while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Degree in legal or business field and knowledge of contract law required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: Soil Machine Dynamics, Davy Bank, Wallsend, Tyne and Wear, NE28 6UZ
About The Role
As a Commercial Officer, you will apply your contractual and legal expertise to assist and support the Commercial team and the wider business with tender opportunities, sales and purchase contract reviews, confidentiality agreements, other ad-hoc contracts as well as general commercial administration. You will support the Legal and Compliance Director in providing a commercial service to internal SMD stakeholders. You will negotiate with both customers and suppliers, identifying and raising any contractual or commercial risks to the business and proposing actions to mitigate those risks, ensuring robust and legally sound contracts are in place. In addition, the Legal and Compliance Director will require you to support them in negotiating more complex, higher value contracts.
What skills and qualifications do I need?
- This position requires someone to be degree educated, preferably within a legal or business field.
- Contract law knowledge, with the ability to understand and apply commercial principles and to advise on contractual obligations, implications and risk is essential for this role.
- Some experience in drafting and negotiating contractual terms is required.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal is essential.
- This role will require the ability to manage multiple tasks, so time management is key along with a high level of attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
Company Culture
Our people. We don’t refer to our own employees as staff or personnel. They are ‘Our people’. ‘Our engineers’. ‘Our team’. ‘Our talent.’ Without our talented people, we would never progress as a company. They embody our values, and they mean everything to us. Whether we are talking directly to them, or about them—the value, attitude and intelligence of our people should be clear.
Required Criteria
- Be degree educated, preferably within a legal or business field.
- Contract law knowledge.
- Ability to understand and apply commercial principles and to advise on contractual obligations, implications and risk.
Closing Date: Thursday 13th August, 2026
Contract Type: fulltime
Salary: Based on Experience
Commercial Contracts Officer - Full time, Permanent in Wallsend employer: SMD
At Soil Machine Dynamics, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that values our people as the heart of our success. Located in Wallsend, Tyne and Wear, we offer competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive environment where your expertise in commercial contracts will be recognised and developed. Join us to contribute to pioneering subsea solutions while enjoying a workplace that prioritises your development and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Contracts Officer - Full time, Permanent in Wallsend
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including SMD, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Contracts Officer - Full time, Permanent in Wallsend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at SMD, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in SMD and the specific role of Commercial Contracts Officer - Full time, Permanent. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for SMD’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at SMD
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at SMD.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at SMD.
