Legal Counsel - Construction Law

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); On-site; USD 54,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual bonus

Professional development

Leave benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in East London seeks a Legal Counsel specializing in Construction Law for a leading infrastructure client. You will lead contract drafting, negotiation, and risk mitigation across procurement and project execution.

The role requires 6+ years in construction law, SA qualification, and strong skills in dispute resolution, advisory work for project teams, and coordination with external counsel. This is a full-time on-site position in the Eastern Cape.

Qualifications

• LLB degree and admission as an Attorney to the High Court of SA.
• Minimum 6 years of construction law experience (in-house or firm).
• In-depth knowledge of SA construction law, contracts, and dispute resolution.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts, subcontracts, and related agreements (FIDIC, NEC).
• Provide legal advice on procurement processes, tendering, and contract awards.
• Manage construction claims, variations, and dispute resolution (adjudication, arbitration, litigation).
• Ensure compliance with construction regulations, health and safety laws, and environmental standards.
• Conduct legal research on construction law issues and case law.
• Advise project managers and site teams on contractual rights and obligations.
• Assist with insurance matters related to construction projects.
• Manage relationships with external counsel and expert witnesses.
• Support contract administration and monitor contractor performance from a legal perspective.
• Develop and deliver training on construction law to project teams.

Skills

Construction law

Negotiation

Drafting

Contract management

Regulatory compliance

Legal research

Stakeholder liaison

Education

LLB degree and SA Attorney admission

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading infrastructure development company involved in major construction projects, is seeking a skilled Legal Counsel specializing in Construction Law. This role, based in East London , Eastern Cape , will provide comprehensive legal support for all phases of construction projects, from procurement and contracting to dispute resolution. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of construction contracts, relevant legislation, and the ability to manage complex legal issues arising on-site and in project management. This is a critical position for ensuring the legal and contractual integrity of the company's significant projects. The successful candidate will be part of a dedicated team working on impactful developments within the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts, subcontracts, and related agreements (e.g., FIDIC, NEC).
• Provide legal advice on procurement processes, tendering, and contract award.
• Manage and advise on construction claims, variations, and dispute resolution processes (adjudication, arbitration, litigation).
• Ensure compliance with construction regulations, health and safety laws, and environmental standards.
• Conduct legal research on construction law issues and case law.
• Advise project managers and site teams on contractual rights and obligations.
• Assist with insurance matters related to construction projects.
• Manage relationships with external counsel and expert witnesses.
• Support contract administration and monitor contractor performance from a legal perspective.
• Develop and deliver training on construction law to project teams.

Requirements

• An LLB degree and admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in construction law, gained either in-house or at a law firm specializing in construction.
• In-depth knowledge of South African construction law, contract principles, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Experience with standard forms of construction contracts is essential.
• Strong negotiation, drafting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent understanding of the construction project lifecycle.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage complex legal issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with meticulous attention to legal documentation.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and standard office software.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunity to work on significant infrastructure projects in East London .
• Professional development and continuous learning support.
• A supportive team environment within a reputable company.
• Annual bonus based on performance.
• Paid leave and company benefits.