Senior Associate – Environment, Planning and Aboriginal Heritage

About the role

Clayton Utz is recruiting a Senior Associate for its Perth Environment & Sustainable Development (ESD) team. The team advises private and public sector clients on projects ranging from large mining, renewables and infrastructure developments to smaller property developments, helping them navigate complex approval pathways. The role sits alongside partner Lucy Shea and includes mentoring junior lawyers.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic advice on environmental, planning and Aboriginal heritage laws, and other frameworks such as native title where needed
• Identify risks and opportunities, engage with consultants and assessment bodies and help clients obtain approvals and implement them effectively
• Support major transactions with risk and risk management strategies
• Represent clients in the State Administrative Tribunal on planning appeals, before the Appeals Convenor on environmental approvals, and in court on judicial review or prosecution for environmental offences
• Work closely with partner Lucy Shea and lead work in the team
• Collaborate with other practice areas in the Projects team and with the national ESD team
• Take part in business development initiatives

Required profile

• At least 1-2 years' experience as a Senior Associate with a broad background in environmental law, ideally including planning, Aboriginal cultural heritage, native title or related areas; exceptional lawyers seeking promotion will also be considered
• Experience supervising and developing junior lawyers
• Ability to work autonomously and as a team member, with a strong client and commercial focus
• Desire to take on a leadership role and to develop expertise in areas of interest

Required skills

• Strong legislative interpretation, analytical thinking and advice drafting, with attention to detail
• Ideal familiarity with State Administrative Tribunal or Supreme/Federal Court litigation
• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills

The firm offers flexible work arrangements and continuous learning and development. Applications are made through the online apply button or by contacting the recruiter.