The Firm

A well-established national firm is looking to add a junior lawyer (1–3 PQE) to its highly regarded Planning & Environment team in Brisbane. The team is known for its mix of public and private sector clients, down-to-earth culture, and commitment to developing junior lawyers through genuine mentorship and varied, high-quality work.

The firm has a high attrition rate and consistently delivers pleasing results with year on year growth. Lawyers tend to stay here to grow their career for the long term as they enjoy quality work, whilst enjoying a genuine culture and good work-life balance.

About You

The team is now seeking a motivated Solicitor to step in and contribute across both advisory and litigation matters.

You don’t need prior experience in planning or environment law to be considered. What matters is a genuine interest in this space and a desire to build your career in a team that values initiative, collaboration, and long-term development.

1–3 years post-admission experience (in private practice, government, or in-house)

Strong interest in planning, environmental or public law

You’ll work on environmental approvals, land use and development, infrastructure projects, and regulatory issues

You’ll gain experience in court matters involving local government, statutory appeals, and environmental compliance

The role includes both litigation and front-end advisory work, with no pressure to specialise too early

Culture and Benefits

Uniquely, the partners have specified that it's equally important that the newest addition to the team be ambitious, as well as social and a team player. The team is tight knit and sociable and therefore they are looking to add a new junior lawyer to contribute and complement the fantastic team culture they have already created.

You can expect a great work/life balance as the firm is fully supportive in your extra curricular pursuits. The firm have very manageable billable targets, ensuring a good work life balance. There are bi-annual firm wide socials including the Christmas party, as well as sports teams and pro-bono groups.

Hybrid working arrangements

Broad, non-hierarchical exposure to complex work

Manageable targets that support work/life balance

Social, tight-knit team culture – team lunches, firm-wide events, sports teams, and pro bono programs

Long-term career development in a team with strong retention and consistent growth

For further information on this role or a confidential discussion about your next career move, please call Katie Francis on (07) 3041 4029 or email to [email protected]

FrancisJames Executive Recruitment is the legal recruitment specialist - we recruit lawyers across all levels from junior lawyer up to Partner level and General Counsel in Brisbane, interstate and internationally.

At FrancisJames Executive Recruitment our purpose is to truly partner with you to achieve the right long-term fit. You can rely on us to provide a confidential, specialised and personable service.