New Job Opening: Non-Contentious Construction Associate Laywer in Leeds, UK

Job Description

Non-Contentious Construction Lawyer (Associate)

Location: Leeds (hybrid working)

Salary: £75,000 to £95,000 (dependent on experience)

Experience: 4 to 6 years’ PQE (Non-Contentious Construction)

If you’re a non-contentious Construction lawyer who wants genuinely big-ticket projects, direct client exposure, and a role that sits right in the middle of the energy transition, this is a standout opportunity to join a market-leading Construction & Engineering team in Leeds or Manchester.

You’ll advise across a broad mix of UK and international mandates, spanning energy, renewables, utilities, data centres and major infrastructure, alongside high-quality real estate development work. The work is varied, fast-moving and strategically important, with early responsibility and strong long-term progression.

Due to sustained growth across the practice, our client is looking to recruit a 4 to 6 PQE Associate to support major projects from procurement through to delivery. You’ll work closely with senior lawyers in a high-performing environment, while taking real ownership of workstreams and building trusted client relationships.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading and supporting workstreams on major UK and international construction and infrastructure projects, advising clients across energy, utilities, renewables, transport, data centres and development

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of project documents, including JCT, NEC, FIDIC and bespoke construction contracts

• Advising on appointments, warranties, guarantees, security documents, framework agreements and long-term service contracts

• Providing strategic commercial, procurement and risk allocation advice to stakeholders including developers, funders, utilities, public sector bodies, operators, contractors and supply chain participants

• Taking ownership of matters and supporting the growth of the practice through client relationship management, business development and mentoring junior colleagues

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England and Wales) with 4 to 6 years’ PQE (or equivalent) in non-contentious construction

• Experience advising on complex construction and engineering projects across energy, renewables, utilities, infrastructure, data centres and development

• Strong understanding of standard form and bespoke construction contracts, including JCT and NEC

• Exposure to FIDIC, EPC, EPCM or other international documentation (helpful, but not essential)

• Strong drafting, analytical and matter management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain excellent client service

• Confident relationship builder, able to deliver commercially focused advice aligned to client objectives and risk appetite

What’s On Offer

• Hybrid working (typically 2 days from home per week, depending on role and location)

• Competitive financial package, including discretionary bonus (performance dependent)

• Private medical insurance, with options to upgrade and add family cover

• Pension with matched employer contributions (up to 5%)

• Life assurance (4x salary) and income protection cover

• 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 27 with service, plus the option to buy or sell up to one week per year

• Sabbatical leave options (subject to eligibility)

• Health and wellbeing support, including 24/7 employee assistance programme and counselling

• Wellbeing subsidy towards gym, sports membership or wellbeing apps

• Cycle to Work scheme and interest-free season ticket loan

• CSR day for volunteering (1 day per year) and payroll giving scheme

• Discounts and rewards portal, plus peer and manager recognition schemes

Working Arrangements

Full-time, permanent role based in Leeds or Manchester, with hybrid working typically 2 days from home per week (depending on role and location).

Next Steps (How to Apply)

Apply online or send your CV to  [email protected]  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We will always obtain your express permission before sharing your details with our client.