Senior Associate - Front End, Construction & Infrastructure - Sydney

Be part of our leading national Sydney Construction & Infrastructure practice

• Work directly with a recognised construction law specialist with over 39 years' industry experience
• Genuine pathway for career progression in a merit-based environment
• Flexible 3:2 hybrid working arrangements
• High-quality front-end work for developers, government and major industry participants

About Us

HWLE is not your typical law firm. Our rapid rise to become the largest legal partnership in Australia shows that in our case, the differences are real. We deliver first class legal advice to our government and commercial clients in every state and territory across Australia. Firm wide, we have over 270 Partners and 1900 people.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Associate/Senior Associate to join our Sydney Construction & Infrastructure team, working closely with David Vaughan  one of Australia's most experienced construction lawyers.

With more than 39 years in the industry, David advises principals, contractors, subcontractors and major consultants across some of Australia's most significant construction and development projects. He is an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation with a focus on Building and Construction Law and is highly regarded for his practical, commercial approach to project delivery.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a front-end construction lawyer looking to work alongside a respected industry leader while building their own profile and expertise.

What You'll Be Doing

You will work on a broad range of front-end construction matters, including:

• Preparing and negotiating construction contracts and consultant agreements
• Advising developers, schools and government clients (at all levels) on procurement strategies and project delivery models
• Drafting tender documentation and contract suites
• Supporting complex private and public sector developments
• Providing strategic project advice and helping clients resolve issues in real time
• Working directly with clients and key project stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle
• Mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to a collaborative team environment

About You

You will ideally have:

• 4+ years' PAE in front-end construction law
• Strong drafting and contract negotiation experience
• Exposure to major projects, infrastructure, development or property-related construction work
• Commercially focused problem-solving skills
• The confidence to manage matters and client relationships with appropriate supervision
• A collaborative approach and genuine enthusiasm for construction and infrastructure projects

Why Join Us?

• Direct access to an industry-leading construction partner
• High-profile work for developers, government and major project participants
• A supportive and down-to-earth team culture
• A true meritocracy where career progression is based on performance and contribution
• Flexible working arrangements and generous leave benefits
• Clear opportunities to develop your technical expertise and build your personal brand in the construction market

What we offer

• Unrivalled career pathways: Our unique meritocracy model proudly offers our staff career development, promoting talent based solely on merit. Our size, range of experience and competitive pricing model will provide you with everything you need to succeed. Unlike our competitors, our Solicitor to Partner ratio enables greater mentoring and client engagement compared to our competitors. Our 180 day career forecasting sessions provide the platform to fast-track your progression.
• Work-Life Balance: We offer flexible work arrangements to support your work-life balance.
• Culture: Be part of a firm renowned for its friendly and down-to-earth culture.
• Impact: Join a firm consistently ranked at the forefront of the Australian legal market, where your work is recognised nationally.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV via the Apply button.

Applicants must have full working rights in Australia and hold a current Australian practising certificate.

HWL Ebsworth strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please contact Laura Harrison for a confidential discussion.