Partner Designate | Utilities & Energy Sector

Senior Associate – Partnership TrackEnergy & InfrastructureLocation: Dublin, IrelandStart Date: Q1 2026Practice Area: Energy & InfrastructureAbout The OpportunityOur client, a leading Irish full-service law firm with significant market presence, is seeking an ambitious Senior Associate to join their Energy & Infrastructure team on a clear partnership track.This is a genuine partnership opportunity for an exceptional lawyer ready to take the next step in their career. You will work alongside market-leading partners on high-profile mandates while building your own client base and developing the technical expertise and commercial skills essential for partnership.Ireland's energy transition presents unprecedented opportunities for legal professionals in this space. This role offers the platform, mentorship, and client exposure needed to establish yourself as a future leader in energy law.The RoleAs Senior Associate On Partnership Track, You Will Work On Sophisticated Energy And Infrastructure Matters With Increasing Autonomy And Client Responsibility, IncludingRenewable Energy & Energy TransitionAdvise on development, financing, and acquisition of renewable energy projects (wind, solar, hydrogen, battery storage)Support clients navigating Ireland's energy transition and decarbonisation strategiesDraft and negotiate power purchase agreements (PPAs), connection agreements, and offtake arrangementsAdvise on regulatory frameworks including renewable energy support schemes and grid connection processesEnergy Regulation & ComplianceProvide strategic advice on energy regulatory matters and CRU complianceAdvise energy companies on licensing requirements and regulatory authorisationsNavigate complex regulatory frameworks for electricity and gas marketsSupport clients on energy policy developments and legislative changesInfrastructure & Project DevelopmentWork on major infrastructure projects across the energy sectorAdvise on project development agreements, EPC contracts, and O&M arrangementsSupport financing structures for large-scale energy and infrastructure projectsHandle land acquisition, planning, and environmental permitting mattersCommercial ContractingDraft and negotiate complex commercial agreements for energy sector clientsAdvise on supply agreements, joint ventures, and strategic partnershipsSupport M&A activity in the energy and infrastructure sectorsEssential RequirementsQualified Solicitor with 6-8+ years PQE, ideally with energy, infrastructure, or commercial/regulatory experienceStrong technical capability in drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreementsDemonstrable interest in energy sector and understanding of energy transition challengesClient relationship skills with ability to manage client matters independentlyBusiness development appetite – keen to build own network and client basePartnership ambition – clear desire to progress to partnership within 2-4 yearsIdeal Candidate ProfileTechnical ExcellenceStrong commercial drafting and negotiation skillsUnderstanding of energy regulatory frameworks (or strong regulatory background transferable to energy)Experience with project development, power sector transactions, or infrastructure matters highly desirableAbility to quickly master complex technical and regulatory conceptsCommercial & Client FocusPractical, solutions-oriented approach to legal adviceAbility to understand client business objectives and commercial driversExperience managing client relationships and running matters independentlyStrong project management skills for complex, multi-party transactionsBusiness Development MindsetProactive approach to building professional networksEnthusiasm for contributing to pitches, thought leadership, and sector engagementUnderstanding that partnership requires both technical excellence and commercial contributionAmbition to become recognized voice in Irish energy sectorLeadership PotentialAbility to mentor and supervise junior lawyersContributing team player with collaborative approachHigh standards of professional conduct and integrityClear communicator with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders