Junior Associate – Projects/ Construction (NQ–2 PQE)
Leading UK Projects, Development & Construction Team
Our client is a leading UK law firm is seeking a Junior Associate (NQ–2 PQE) to join its specialist Projects, Development and Construction Team. This is an outstanding opportunity to develop within a practice known for its technical excellence and, crucially, its genuinely collegiate, supportive and balanced working environment — the qualities candidates consistently highlight as the biggest attraction.
Why Lawyers Choose This Team
This team is recognised for a culture where junior lawyers thrive. You can expect:
- A close‑knit, collaborative environment where people enjoy working together and support one another’s development.
- Approachable, hands‑on partners who are invested in mentoring, guiding and helping Associates grow with confidence.
- Balanced workloads and sensible resourcing, ensuring development without unrealistic pressure.
- Open communication and supportive leadership, with wellbeing taken seriously.
- Hybrid working (up to 50%) and flexible arrangements that respect life outside of work.
- A strong commitment to inclusion, ensuring every individual feels valued, respected and able to be their full self.
This is a team where people stay because they feel trusted, supported and part of a genuinely collaborative practice.
The Work
The team is a core part of the wider firm, providing a comprehensive range of construction law solutions across the full spectrum of industry projects. Work includes:
- Advising on procurement and contracting strategies from project inception.
- Drafting and negotiating construction, development and project documentation.
- Preparing agreements that reflect client interests and appropriate risk allocation.
- Supporting projects across regeneration schemes, accommodation sector developments, energy and renewables, healthcare, hotels and infrastructure.
- Advising on standard form and bespoke contracts, including JCT, NEC, EPC, EPCM, partnering arrangements and Joint Ventures.
- Providing guidance on live project risks — delays, payment issues, fire‑stopping concerns, extensions of time, termination and insolvency.
- Helping clients avoid disputes through proactive, commercial advice and shaping negotiations.
- Exposure to UK and international projects, working with trusted overseas firms and consultants where appropriate.
This is a role with genuine breadth, variety and early responsibility, supported by strong supervision and partner access.
About You
- NQ–2 PQE with experience in a construction or housing development team.
- Strong grounding in non‑contentious construction law and standard form contracts.
- Working knowledge of JCT, NEC, EPC and related appointments, including typical amendments and market norms.
- Willingness to take on bespoke agreements, complex due diligence and development arrangements with appropriate supervision.
- Interest in developing sector know‑how and contributing to BD initiatives.
- Strong communication skills, commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Positive, proactive and keen to grow within a supportive, collegiate team.