Our client is a leading global law firm with a history spanning almost 200 years and a clear strategy for future growth. Their in-depth understanding of clients and commitment to providing exceptional standards of service have seen them become a trusted adviser to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments in all areas of commercial law. About the Team Our client's Energy & Infrastructure team represents a premier practice in the Australian market, reflecting their market-leading position in energy and infrastructure transactions. The team advises on the full spectrum of energy and infrastructure projects, serving as preferred legal advisers to major energy companies, infrastructure developers, utilities, government entities, and leading investment banks and funds. Their work spans renewable energy projects (solar, wind, battery storage), traditional energy assets, major infrastructure developments, project finance transactions, regulatory compliance, and energy market operations. The team has extensive experience across the entire project lifecycle from development and construction through to operation and divestment, supported by deep expertise in highly regulated energy and infrastructure sectors. About the Role As Australia's energy transition accelerates and infrastructure investment reaches record levels, our client's Energy & Infrastructure team is seeking an experienced Senior Associate to join their market-leading practice in Melbourne or Sydney. The firm combines the benefits of a leading energy practice with a supportive and collegiate environment, looking to make a long-term investment in a Senior Associate who is similarly committed to building a career in energy and infrastructure law. This vacancy represents an outstanding opportunity for a team-player with strong technical skills who is commercially astute and passionate about the energy sector. The Energy & Infrastructure team is well established and highly regarded, with rare opportunities to join this elite practice. Key Responsibilities Advise clients on energy and infrastructure project development, including renewable energy projects, transmission infrastructure, and major infrastructure developments Draft and negotiate complex project documents including development agreements, construction contracts, power purchase agreements, connection agreements, and joint venture arrangements Manage project finance transactions for energy and infrastructure projects, working with developers, lenders, and investors Provide regulatory advice on energy market regulations, planning approvals, environmental compliance, and government policy developments Lead due diligence on energy asset acquisitions and disposals Coordinate with technical specialists including engineers, environmental consultants, and financial advisers Prepare formal legal opinions on complex energy and infrastructure matters Handle transaction completion and post-closing matters Business development activities and client relationship management Contribute to department know-how and mentor junior lawyers Senior Associate Role Expectations You will be expected to: Act with integrity to provide incisive advice on complex energy and infrastructure matters Take day-to-day responsibility for transactions and projects with direct client contact Proactively progress complex energy projects with appropriate partner support Demonstrate excellent attention to detail in managing multi-faceted energy transactions Show well-developed communication skills with innovative approach to complex legal structures Be confident in negotiations with energy companies, government entities, and financial institutions Communicate effectively with clients to understand commercial objectives and provide practical solutions Build relationships with key players in the energy and infrastructure sectors Understand energy market developments and identify business opportunities Maintain networks across the energy industry and identify cross-selling opportunities Support team development and contribute to a collaborative work environment About the Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will have: 5-8 years experience in energy and infrastructure law preferably gained within a top-tier firm or in-house with major energy company Strong experience in renewable energy projects , project finance, energy regulation, or infrastructure development Knowledge of Australian energy markets including NEM operations, regulatory frameworks, and government policy Experience with project finance transactions and energy asset acquisitions Understanding of energy technologies including solar, wind, battery storage, and transmission infrastructure Excellent drafting and negotiation skills with commercial approach to complex transactions Strong analytical skills and ability to manage multiple complex energy projects Proactive approach with genuine interest in energy sector developments Client relationship skills and desire to build networks in the energy industry Why Apply? Our client offers: Highly competitive remuneration package Market-leading energy and infrastructure practice with significant growth opportunities Established Senior Associate Career Path Framework with clear promotion pathways Secondment opportunities with major energy clients and international offices Comprehensive professional development in cutting-edge energy law Work on landmark energy projects shaping Australia's energy transition Collaborative environment with leading energy law specialists Premium benefits package including health and wellbeing support Flexible working arrangements Partnership track for exceptional candidates How to Apply Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter highlighting relevant energy and infrastructure experience. For further information contact: Ivan Pignataro Director D'Arcy Weil T: 61 3 9999 7409 | M: 0416 507 856 | E: ivan@darcyweil.com
