Senior Associate – Corporate Commercial Lawyer

About Sharpe & Abel We are Sharpe & Abel, a law and strategy firm built for the people who make, build, design, and service the complex systems that keep the world running. We have specialised in supporting industrial, engineering, and technical companies across the Asia-Pacific region, helping them scale, transform, export, and thrive. Our model combines the precision of private practice with the commercial insight of in-house counsel, giving our clients practical legal solutions that work in the real world. Our Values Competency Love Trust Freedom Security These values guide everything we do: striving for the right answer over being right, caring deeply about clients and colleagues, keeping our promises, working flexibly and responsibly, and continually sharpening our skills to stay confident and secure in our craft. About the Opportunity We're seeking a Senior Associate to join our close-knit delivery team, reporting to our Managing Associate. This is a non-contentious commercial and corporate role focused on complex contracts, major projects, and strategic client relationships. You’ll work on significant matters across industries including construction, industrial technology, infrastructure, and engineering, helping clients achieve practical, commercially sound outcomes. You'll also mentor junior lawyers, manage high-value projects, and contribute to a transparent, collaborative team culture that values excellence, autonomy, and service. This role is based in Melbourne with a flexible hybrid work model. While we are ideally seeking someone local who can collaborate in person with the team, we may consider a remote arrangement for an exceptional candidate. Responsibilities Drafting and negotiating complex commercial contracts across industrial and technical sectors Providing clear, practical legal advice that balances commercial realities with sound risk management Managing significant matters independently while collaborating with a small, supportive team Mentoring and guiding junior lawyers and paralegals Advising on corporate and commercial issues, including employment, IP, and compliance Maintaining strong client relationships built on trust, responsiveness, and accountability Contributing to internal knowledge-sharing sessions and continuous improvement initiatives About You You are a commercially astute lawyer who loves solving complex problems for business clients. You combine deep legal knowledge with a pragmatic, service-oriented mindset, and you care more about finding the right solution than being the one who’s right. To succeed, you’ll bring: At least 5 years post‑admission experience (PAE) in commercial or corporate law A current unrestricted Australian Practising Certificate or eligibility to hold one A strong grounding in contract law and comfort working with large, detailed agreements Experience advising corporate clients and managing competing priorities with confidence The ability to balance legal precision with practical, business‑minded judgement Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adaptable to varied audiences Experience across both private practice and in‑house environments Familiarity with clients in industrial, engineering, or infrastructure sectors Understanding of long‑term, partnership‑based client relationships rather than transactional engagements Benefits We’re offering a competitive salary package of $180,000–$200,000 inclusive of superannuation. Additional benefits include: Relocation assistance for interstate or Commonwealth‑qualified international hires Flexible working hours and hybrid arrangements (Melbourne‑based preferred; remote considered for the right candidate) Full technology setup, including laptop, mobile phone, and home office support Corporate Uber account for client meetings and business travel Regular internal legal education sessions and team development initiatives A small, transparent team culture that values autonomy, honesty, and shared success Flat structure with direct access to leadership and visibility into firm performance Clients who are capable, successful, and genuinely rewarding to work with Ready to Apply? If you’re looking for meaningful, high‑calibre work with a team that values honesty, flexibility, and professionalism we’d love to hear from you. Apply Now to join Sharpe & Abel and help us deliver legal excellence to the companies that keep the world running. #J-18808-Ljbffr