Associate Contentious Construction 3+ PQE Bristol or Exeter

Overview

In this role you will handle high‑quality contentious construction disputes for major national and international clients from Bristol or Exeter. You will manage a varied caseload across litigation, adjudication, arbitration and ADR, collaborating with cross‑functional teams. The role offers training support from a Senior Knowledge Lawyer and a clear path to high‑impact work and client-facing responsibility. You will help shape dispute strategies and deliver pragmatic, commercial advice in a fast‑paced, specialist practice.

Pay / Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• High quality, complex work for prestigious clients
• Strong career development and progression opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Access to specialist training and knowledge resources
• Opportunities to build your professional network and profile

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied and complex caseload of contentious construction and energy disputes
• Represent clients across court litigation, adjudication, arbitration, mediation and ADR
• Advise on contract management and dispute avoidance strategies
• Work with a range of construction projects (commercial development, utilities/renewables, residential, O&M, facilities management)
• Collaborate with Construction, Real Estate, Corporate, Commercial and Planning teams
• Engage directly with clients from outset and oversee day‑to‑day conduct of disputes
• Receive ongoing training from a Senior Knowledge Lawyer
• Own high‑value, high‑quality work with significant client impact

Key requirements

• 3+ years’ PQE in contentious construction
• Strong experience in adjudication and court litigation
• Excellent communication, technical, and organisational skills
• Ability to provide clear, commercial, pragmatic advice under pressure
• Experience with JCT and NEC contracts (ideal)
• Exposure to adjudications, arbitrations, and expert determinations
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle complex matters
• Proven ability to build strong client relationships
• Genuine interest in the construction and infrastructure sector
• Ambition, self-motivation, and enthusiasm for professional development
• Collaborative, team-focused approach

• excellent communication
• commercial judgement
• collaborative mindset
• adjudication
• court litigation
• arbitration

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