We are seeking a motivated and commercially minded junior construction lawyer (1–3 PQE) to join our in‑house legal team in Sunderland. This role offers an excellent opportunity for a junior solicitor to develop their construction law expertise within a fast‑paced and growing regeneration business operating across the UK.
Working closely with the senior legal team and operational departments, you will provide practical and commercially focused legal support across construction projects and wider business operations. The role also offers exposure to the Group Board of Directors and the opportunity to influence the development of internal governance, controls, and risk management processes.
Travel to our regional offices may very occasionally be required and flexible working opportunities can be discussed at interview stage.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
* Provide legal advice and support on a wide range of construction‑related matters.
* Support the bids and tendering team on contractual and legal considerations.
* Review, summarise and draft construction contracts, supply chain agreements, subcontracts and consultant appointments.
* Advise on standard form construction contracts including JCT, NEC and bespoke agreements.
* Prepare contract risk assessments and advise on appropriate mitigation strategies.
* Assist with dispute avoidance and support dispute resolution processes where required.
* Work collaboratively with commercial, project management, health and safety and operational teams to provide pragmatic and business‑focused legal advice.
* Develop and deliver legal training and guidance to internal stakeholders.
* Maintain and update contract templates, legal guidance materials and internal documentation.
* Support corporate governance matters including insurance, health and safety compliance and regulatory requirements.
* Monitor legal and regulatory developments affecting the construction industry.
* Contribute to the continuous improvement of legal processes, governance and risk management frameworks.
* Assist with wider commercial legal matters across the business where required.
Other Duties
* Undertake additional duties as reasonably required to support the legal team and the wider business. This may include assisting with broader commercial legal matters, supporting business growth initiatives, and contributing to internal governance and compliance activities.
Person Specification
* Qualified solicitor in England and Wales with 1–3 years PQE.
* Applications from experienced paralegals, legal executives and other legal professionals with equivalent experience will also be considered.
* Experience in construction law gained in private practice or in‑house.
* Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
* Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly to non‑legal colleagues.
* Excellent drafting, negotiation and contract review skills.
* Experience with standard form construction contracts such as JCT and NEC.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
* Proactive and commercially minded with a solutions‑oriented approach.
* Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships across the business.
* Desire to continuously develop and learn new skills.
* Willingness to support a broad range of commercial legal work beyond construction matters.
* In‑house experience is desirable but not essential.
* Understanding of health and safety legislation and CDM Regulations.
* Familiarity with procurement processes and public sector frameworks would be advantageous.
* Knowledge of construction adjudication and dispute resolution procedures.
* Knowledge of the social housing sector.
* Knowledge of grant funding mechanics would be helpful but not essential.
* Ability to horizon scan and identify relevant legislative and policy changes.
Employee Benefits
* Competitive salary dependent on experience (£45,000 - £60,000 per annum)
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