Non-Contentious Construction Associate - 2-10 years PQE

Chadwick Nott; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A top-tier national law firm in Bristol is seeking a Non-Contentious Construction Associate to Managing Associate with 2-10 years PQE. This full-time position offers hybrid working and a clear career progression path. You will join a dynamic team, advise on major projects, and contribute to business development. The firm champions diversity and inclusion and seeks passionate candidates ready for a new challenge.

Benefits

Competitive salary with annual review

Flexible working arrangements

Comprehensive benefits package

Supportive team culture and career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in non-contentious construction law or a mix of advisory and contentious work.
• 2-10 years PQE (flexible on experience).

Responsibilities

• Drafting and negotiating building and engineering contracts.
• Advising on consultant appointments, warranties, bonds, and guarantees.
• Providing strategic legal support to public and private sector clients.

Skills

Strong commercial awareness and industry insight

Excellent drafting and negotiation skills

Proven ability to manage client expectations

Confidence using legal tech and case management systems

Collaborative, self-starting attitude

Excellent interpersonal skills

Education

Qualified solicitor

Job description

Overview

Non-Contentious Construction Associate to Managing Associate - 2-10 years PQE - Bristol (Hybrid)

Location: Bristol
Hours: Full time (flexible working available)
Salary: £65,000 - £95,000 depending on experience
PQE: 2-10 years

A top-tier national law firm is expanding its Construction & Engineering team and is seeking a talented lawyer with experience in non-contentious construction law to join their Bristol office. This is a full-time, permanent opportunity with flexible working arrangements and a clear path for career progression.

Whether you’re an Associate looking to step up or a Managing Associate seeking a new challenge, this role offers the chance to work on high-profile projects with some of the most respected names in the construction and engineering industry.

The Role

You’ll join a dynamic team of 28 construction law specialists, advising on the front end of major infrastructure and development projects. Key responsibilities include:

• Drafting and negotiating building and engineering contracts (JCT, NEC, MF/1, and institutional forms)
• Advising on consultant appointments, warranties, bonds, guarantees, and ancillary project documentation
• Working on development and funding agreements, agreements for lease, and novation arrangements
• Providing strategic legal support to public and private sector clients including employers, contractors, funds, and consultants
• Contributing to business development and maintaining strong client relationships
• Managing financial performance including time recording, billing, and WIP

Candidate Requirements

You’ll be a qualified solicitor with experience in non-contentious construction law or a mix of advisory and contentious work. The team welcomes applications from lawyers at all levels, especially those with:

• 2-10 years PQE (flexible on experience)
• Strong commercial awareness and industry insight
• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills
• Proven ability to manage client expectations and deliver high-quality legal advice
• Confidence using legal tech and case management systems
• A collaborative, self-starting attitude and excellent interpersonal skills

Location & Working Arrangements

• This role is based in Bristol, with hybrid working available. The firm supports flexible arrangements to suit individual and team needs.

Why Join

• You’ll be part of a nationally recognised team led by a Legal 500 and Chambers-ranked partner. The firm offers a supportive, inclusive culture and a strong pipeline of work across the UK. With ambitious growth plans and high-profile clients, this is a fantastic opportunity to advance your career.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with annual review
• Flexible working arrangements
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Supportive team culture and career development opportunities

Contact

If you’d like to explore this opportunity or have a confidential chat about your next move, please reach out:

0117 917 1515
07711 799761
[e-mail]

Olivia Reed | LinkedIn
Olivia Reed - Chadwick Nott Legal Recruitment

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Where a level of experience is indicated, this is intended as a guideline only. If you’re passionate about construction law and ready for a new challenge, we’d love to hear from you.

*At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.*