Trainee Solicitor

COMPANY OVERVIEW

EnQuest is an independent oil and gas company, recognised for its expertise in maximising the value of mature and underinvested hydrocarbon assets. The Group is focused on sustainably extending field life and unlocking value across the asset lifecycle. EnQuest’s operations are centred in the UK and Southeast Asia, with transformational growth across both regions representing a core strategic priority. As a key player supporting a pragmatic and responsible energy transition in the UK, EnQuest is advancing the transformation of the Sullom Voe Terminal on Shetland into a major decarbonisation and renewable energy hub.

Fundamental to EnQuest’s success to date is our greatest asset, our people. Their talent, expertise, knowledge, and commitment have delivered remarkable results, and we continue to look for the same attributes in prospective employees as we pursue plans for further development across our global operations.

At EnQuest, we support a diverse and inclusive workplace and continually look to improve and develop our culture. We are respectful and open with others, valuing the diversity of all our people and listening to the views they bring. Our focus on diversity and inclusion makes our performance stronger and enhances our business.

The successful candidate will become part of a progressive, innovative and ambitious organisation that holds a distinct set of values based on respect for the individual. As well as having the opportunity to pursue your goals and achieve your ambitions, you will be encouraged to contribute fresh ideas and take on new challenges that test your abilities and elevate your performance to new levels.

The legal traineeship programme lasts two years in order to provide the practical experience and professional development required to qualify as a solicitor in Scotland.

THE ROLE

The Trainee Solicitor will form part of EnQuest's Legal & Commercial team, supporting a wide range of legal and commercial activities and ensuring advice and support is delivered to the wider business on time and to a high standard.

This exciting opportunity will provide exposure across a range of legal and commercial work, including support to operations, drafting, reviewing and analysing upstream agreements (such as joint operating agreements and decommissioning security agreements) and supply chain contracts, dispute resolution  and HSEA matters.

The role is based in Aberdeen and will involve collaborating with employees and stakeholders primarily across our UK operations, providing an excellent foundation for a long-term career in a legal environment.

The successful candidate will be given the opportunity to contribute to key people initiatives and projects, helping to support business performance while developing the skills, knowledge, and experience required to become a legal professional.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER

• During the two-year traineeship, we will provide structured on-the-job training and opportunities to develop practical knowledge and broader business understanding across the organisation.

• Throughout the programme, group learning and personal coaching will be provided to help develop competence, confidence, and personal effectiveness. The programme includes a structured series of modules aligned to the EnQuest Values and incorporates interactive learning events, behavioural development training, and 1:1 coaching.

• A strong mentoring culture, with an assigned mentor to support personal and professional development together with supervision from the wider Legal & Commercial team to provide learning opportunities throughout the traineeship.

• Exposure to a broad range of activities and projects that will help build a well-rounded understanding of the legal and commercial work undertaken by a solicitor forming part of an in-house legal and commercial team of an independent energy company.

• Based in our Aberdeen office, with opportunities to visit operational sites and engage with employees across the business.

• Competitive benefits package including 33 days holiday, private medical insurance, company pension, and life assurance.

• Flexible working culture, including hybrid working arrangements, noting that learning from the expertise of colleagues is an important part of a trainee’s development and the best place to learn from colleagues is within the office environment.

• Support towards providing the professional development and practical experience required to qualify as a solicitor.

• Potential secondment within a law firm (still based in Aberdeen) for a period of time.

We are looking for high-achieving candidates with a desire to learn. The ideal candidate should enjoy problem solving, detailed analysis, be willing to be trusted with meaningful work and embrace new ideas and take on projects where the approach or solution isn’t known from the outset.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING

We are looking for talented individuals who are passionate about developing a career as a solicitor in an in-house legal environment.

We are making a significant investment in our future talent and are looking for individuals who demonstrate professional ability, curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn.

The ideal candidate will:

• Have a genuine interest in people, organisational culture, and employee development.

• Enjoy building relationships and working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.

• Possess strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately with confidential information.

• Demonstrate strong organisational and planning skills.

• Show initiative and be comfortable taking ownership of tasks and projects.

• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Display a growth mindset and a desire for continuous learning and development.

• Demonstrate agility and adaptability, embracing change and thriving in a fast-paced environment where priorities, challenges, and opportunities can shift quickly.

TRAINEE REQUIREMENTS

• LLB in Scots Law (or equivalent qualification).

• Diploma in Legal Practice (or equivalent qualification).

• An Entrance Certificate from the Law Society of Scotland (or equivalent).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building capabilities.

• High levels of professionalism, integrity, and discretion.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Confident user of Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

• Ability to work effectively, both independently and as part of a team.

• Flexibility, adaptability, and a positive attitude towards learning and development.

• A strong commitment to developing a long-term career within a legal environment.

ELIGIBILITY

Please note that candidates must have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this opportunity.

OUR APPLICATION PROCESS 

Interviews and assessments are designed to measure your skills for success, while also providing you with an understanding of the graduate programme, our company, and the role itself. You will have plenty of opportunity to ask questions throughout the process.

Application Stages

• Online application via our Careers Portal - Careers (myworkdayjobs.com)

• Interview with Business and HR Stakeholders (early 2027)

• Group Assessment Centre (following above interview) 

WHY JOIN ENQUEST?

At EnQuest, you'll have the opportunity to build your career in a business that values its people, encourages innovation, and supports professional growth.

Join us and be part of our journey as we support the energy transition and develop the talent that will drive our future success!

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 31 DECEMBER 2026