Join a team shaping the future of Energy, Infrastructure, and Climate law!
DLA Piper’s Projects team is growing, and we’re looking for a high-performing Environment and Planning Senior Associate with 4–6 years’ experience to join our Sydney team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex and high-profile projects and make an impact in a collaborative environment as part of our dynamic global team.
About our Projects & Energy Transition Practice
DLA Piper is a global leader in major energy and infrastructure projects, combining strong commercial insight with deep technical expertise. With over 30 years’ experience delivering complex, large-scale projects worldwide, we support clients across innovative project structures and diverse financing models, including limited-recourse, structured and bond financings, PPPs, and PFIs.
Recognised for seamless global collaboration and a solutions‑focused approach, we have advised on more energy transition deals than any other global law firm since 2021. Our experience spans the full energy transition ecosystem, including renewables, energy‑from‑waste, hybrid systems, biofuels, power‑to‑X (green hydrogen, ammonia and renewable fuels), battery storage, carbon markets, guiding clients through every stage of the project lifecycle.
You’ll work closely with Noni Shannon, our leading Partner for Environment and Climate and one of Australia’s most respected lawyers in this field. You will advise industry and government on all aspects of environment, planning and climate law, including:
- Project approvals and environmental impact assessment
- Contaminated land, remediation and redevelopment
- Regulatory investigations and enforcement
- Climate and sustainability reporting
Main duties and responsibilities
- The full lifecycle of major renewables, energy, infrastructure and resources project development
- Advising on the regulation of and participation in environmental markets
- The development of carbon and biodiversity projects
- Advising on regulatory compliance and investigations, including environmental prosecutions and litigation
- Supporting clients with their ESG requirements and participation in the circular economy, including regulatory scanning and best practice guidance
About you
- 4–6 years’ post‑qualification experience in environment, planning or climate law
- Strong technical skills and commercial acumen
- Ability to manage complex matters and build trusted client relationships
- A collaborative mindset and passion for innovation
What we offer:
- Access to DLA Piper Career Academies, our award‑winning global development program
- Opportunities to work on market‑leading projects with industry experts
- A supportive, inclusive culture that values growth and flexibility
Be part of a team that thrives on complex challenges and delivers exceptional results
About Us:
We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.
At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.
We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.
Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.
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At DLA Piper, we aim to make meaningful progress and build an inclusive culture where anyone affected by disability, neurodiversity or a long-term health condition has an equitable and accessible chance of success. If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment team and we will be happy to support you.
Agile Working
We recognise that people have responsibilities and interests outside of their career and that as a business, we all benefit from working flexibly. That’s why we are open to discussing with candidates the different ways in which we are able to support requests for agile working arrangements.
Pre-Engagement Screening
In the event that we make an offer to you, and where local legislation permits, we will conduct pre-engagement screening checks that may include but are not limited to your professional and academic qualifications, your eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction, any criminal records, your financial stability, and references from previous employers.
Our hiring approach
Our hiring approach enables us to learn about the professional and person you are, and gives you the opportunity to learn about us. Your recruitment experience can differ depending on the type of role you are interviewing for. You will always meet your direct Line Manager for your role, as well as peers and close collaborators for the position. For some of our roles we may also use assessment tools, practical exercises, and panel presentations. Your Recruitment Business Partner will inform you of the recruitment process at the start of any recruitment process, but please let us know if you have any questions prior to making an application.
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