Construction Associate (3+ PQE)

Douglas Scott Global Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Douglas Scott Global Recruitment is working with a leading national law firm to appoint a Construction Associate (3+ PQE) in Manchester city centre. You will handle a mix of contentious and non-contentious construction matters for a diverse client base and work closely with senior lawyers.

You will develop client relationships, contribute to business development and help drive the practice forward in a collaborative, career‑driven environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in both contentious and non-contentious construction matters.
• Knowledge of standard form contracts (JCT and NEC).
• Strong drafting and technical legal skills.
• Experience building and managing client relationships.
• Ambitious, proactive approach to career development.
• Ability to supervise or support junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Advise on a broad range of construction matters for developers, contractors and consultants.
• Support senior lawyers and partners on high-value projects.
• Develop and maintain client relationships and business opportunities.
• Deliver practical, commercially focused advice with attention to detail.
• Contribute to the growth of the practice and cross-selling opportunities.

Skills

Construction law

Client relationship management

Drafting and technical legal skills

Business development

Supervising junior staff

Organizational skills

Job description

Construction Associate | Manchester | 3+ PQE

A highly regarded national law firm is looking to appoint a Construction Associate (3+ PQE) to join its growing Construction team in Manchester city centre.

This is an excellent opportunity to work alongside leading construction and engineering lawyers on a broad range of high-quality matters while developing your career within a supportive and ambitious team. The firm offers a clear progression pathway, strong partner support and genuine opportunities for long-term career advancement.

The Role

You will advise a diverse client base on a mixture of contentious and non-contentious construction matters across a wide range of sectors. The team acts on complex and high-value projects, providing commercially focused advice to developers, contractors, consultants and other key stakeholders.

Working closely with senior lawyers and partners, you will play an active role in client relationships, business development and the continued growth of the practice.

About You

Applications are welcomed from construction solicitors with 3+ years' PQE, although candidates with more senior experience could be considered.

You will ideally have:

• Experience in construction law, with exposure to both contentious and non-contentious matters.
• Knowledge of standard form construction contracts, including JCT and NEC contracts.
• The ability to deliver practical, commercially focused advice.
• Strong drafting and technical legal skills.
• Experience building and managing client relationships.
• A proactive and ambitious approach to career development.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• An interest in business development and cross-selling opportunities.
• Experience supervising or supporting junior team members.