Associate, Aviation

SHL; Sydney; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Sparke Helmore in Sydney is seeking an Associate to join our growing Aviation team. You will work on a diverse range of aviation and aerospace matters alongside leading Australian aviation lawyers.

With at least two years in a general liability practice, aviation experience is valued but not essential. You will bring strong written and verbal communication, solid negotiation skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Qualifications

• You will have at least 2 years’ experience in a general liability practice.
• Aviation experience is highly regarded but not essential.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational ability.

Responsibilities

• Assist in advising on hull and passenger liability claims.
• Work on regulatory matters and insurance issues.
• Support defendants in litigated and non-litigated matters.
• Collaborate with senior aviation lawyers and mentors.

Skills

General liability

Aviation exposure

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Attention to detail

Job description

Why Sparke Helmore?

As an independent Australian firm with a long history and a big heart, we have a rich story to tell. Our spirit is built on the power of relationships with our people, clients and communities.

At Sparke Helmore, you’ll be actively involved as part of a diverse, genuine and friendly team. We’ll help you harness your ambition and take your skills to new heights with exposure to outstanding clients and easy access to exceptional leaders and mentors.

Your story is yours to define. We’d like to be part of it and for you to be part of ours.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Associate to join our growing Aviation team in Sydney working with Mark Gray-Spencer.

About the team and the work

• The role presents a unique opportunity to join a leading specialist aviation and aerospace practice which will give you exposure to a diverse range of complex and high-profile matters across the sector.

• The team advise on a broad range of aviation and aerospace-related matters, including hull and passenger liability claims, regulatory matters, personal injury, property damages (including third party property damage on the ground), personal accident, cargo, war risks, policy coverage and policy wordings.

• The team acts for defendants in both litigated and non-litigated disputes. Clients include underwriters, insurers, reinsurers, domestic and international carriers, general aviation operators, airports, maintenance and repair organisations and ground handlers.

• You will get exposure to top-tier work that is broad, interesting, and challenging, whilst working with leading Australian aviation lawyers in a high-performing, supportive and collaborative team environment.

What the market says

• Finalist: Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards – Law Firm of the Year, 2024, 2025 & 2026.

• Finalist: Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards - Insurance Specialist Firm of the Year, 2024.

• Australasian Lawyer - Law Firm of the Year, 2024.

• The Australasian Lawyer 5-Star Employer of Choice.

• Best Law Firms 2027 ranked by Best Lawyers - National Tier 1 Ranking for Insurance Law.

• Best Law Firms 2027 ranked by Best Lawyers – Law Firm of the Year, Insurance Law.

• Mark Gray-Spencer recognised as a Leading Aviation Lawyer (Recommended) – Doyles Australia, 2026.

About you

• You will have at least 2 years’ experience in a general liability practice. Aviation experience is highly regarded but not essential.

• You may have exposure to aviation work and are looking to join a specialist team or a genuine interest in the area and are able to bring transferrable skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Demonstrated negotiation skills.

• Excellent attention to detail and organisational ability.

What Sparke Helmore can offer you

Our culture is one which values and celebrates diversity to better represent the communities in which we live and work. We encourage people from all backgrounds to join us - and bring their whole selves to work.

We recognise people value things differently. That’s why our comprehensive benefits program is wide ranging so that everyone can find something that appeals to them. We’re sure you will find something to love about what Sparke Helmore has to offer.

Join us

We believe the best stories are shared

Background Screening: Successful applications will be subject to pre-employment and in some circumstances, ongoing background checks which include a criminal history check.

For further information regarding this opportunity please contact Anthony Demarco on [phone].