Contentious Construction Associate — Global Exposure

DWF; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

DWF is seeking a qualified solicitor to join our national Construction team in Manchester or Birmingham, focusing on contentious work and high-value disputes.

You will work alongside experienced partners and clients on complex construction matters, with exposure to international projects and a supportive, inclusive environment. The role offers hybrid working in our UK offices and opportunities for career progression.

Qualifications

• Experience in contentious construction and dispute resolution matters.
• Experience drafting, reviewing and negotiating construction contracts and appointments.
• Strong relationship-building skills with clients and colleagues.
• Commercial awareness and understanding of client needs.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Strong communication, drafting and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a team.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality client service.

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of contentious construction matters.
• Advise clients on dispute avoidance strategies and early-stage conflict resolution.
• Support adjudication, mediation, arbitration and litigation matters.
• Providing pre-contractual procurement advice and preparing and negotiating construction documentation.
• Analyse and interpret construction contracts and project documentation.
• Deliver practical, clear and commercially focused legal advice.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients across a range of industry sectors.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the wider Real Estate and Infrastructure practices.
• Contribute to business development initiatives and thought leadership activities.

Skills

Contentious construction

Contract drafting

Relationship-building

Commercial awareness

Organisational skills

Communication

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Job description

DWF is seeking a qualified solicitor to join our national Construction team in Manchester or Birmingham, focusing on contentious work and high-value disputes.

You will work alongside experienced partners and clients on complex construction matters, with exposure to international projects and a supportive, inclusive environment. The role offers hybrid working in our UK offices and opportunities for career progression.