Special Counsel (Front End Construction)

Hays

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a frontend construction Special Counsel to join a highly regarded national firm with a strong reputation across the building and infrastructure sector.

This role sits within a well-established construction practice known for delivering commercial, pragmatic and strategic advice across major projects. The team advises a broad client base across the full lifecycle of construction and infrastructure developments.

The Role

This is a senior front-end-focused position with a strong advisory and transactional focus including:

  • Advising on construction and infrastructure projects from early procurement through to delivery
  • Drafting and negotiating a range of project documentation, including building contracts and consultancy agreements
  • Structuring and advising on risk allocation and project frameworks
  • Providing strategic advice to clients on commercial and legal risks during development and delivery phases
  • Supporting clients across both private and public sector projects
  • Working closely with senior stakeholders to deliver practical, business-focused advice

You will also have the opportunity to play a key role in mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to the continued growth of the practice.

The Practice

This team is recognised for its end-to-end construction capability, covering:

  • Front-end contracting and procurement strategy
  • Project risk management and advisory
  • Back-end disputes (where required)
  • Regulatory and compliance issues

The group works across a diverse range of projects, including:

  • Residential and mixed-use developments
  • Commercial and retail projects
  • Major infrastructure and civil works (roads, rail energy)
  • Health, aged care and large-scale developments

Clients include developers, government bodies, contractors, consultants and financiers, offering broad and high-quality exposure.

About You

  • Admitted to practice as a lawyer in Australia
  • Senior construction lawyer with strong front-end experience
  • Currently operating at Senior Associate or Special Counsel level
  • Proven experience drafting and negotiating construction contracts and project documentation
  • Strong commercial acumen and ability to provide strategic, solutions-focuse advice
  • Experience advising developers, contractors or public sector clients
  • Confident engaging directly with clients and senior stakeholders

What’s on Offer

  • Attractive salary package
  • High-quality, top-tier calibre work without the traditional rigid structure
  • Flexible working arrangements – 3 days in office 2days from home
  • Opportunity to work across complex, high-value projects
  • Supportive and collaborative team environment with strong leadership
  • Pathway for progression

Why This Role?

This is a standout opportunity for a senior construction lawyer looking to step into a strategic front-end advisory role, working on complex projects with a firm that values commerciality, autonomy and client relationships.

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or contact Laura on 0280626176/***email_hidden***

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position or an update on the market, feel free to contact Laura from a confidential conversation.