Senior Associate - Employment
Why join us? DWF is looking for an experienced Employment lawyer to join our Belfast team, offering the opportunity to work across the full spectrum of employment law for clients with operations in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
You’ll become part of DWF’s wider Employment and Pensions practice, working with colleagues who advise organisations ranging from local SMEs to multinational businesses, as well as HR teams, in-house lawyers and business leaders. The wider team combines international capability with local jurisdictional expertise.
The role offers a varied mix of advisory, transactional and contentious work, alongside the opportunity to take ownership of client relationships and contribute to the continued growth of the practice. You'll also be joining DWF at a time of continued investment in Belfast. In 2026, the business announced seven promotions and 12 new hires in the Belfast office across its Commercial and Insurance Services divisions.
The role is based in Belfast, with hybrid working available. Responsibilities Manage your own caseload, handling everything from day-to-day advisory work to employment litigation. Provide pragmatic, business-focused advice on issues including TUPE, reorganisations, contracts, policies, and senior exits. Work closely with our corporate and commercial teams on high-value transactions.
Take ownership of employment claims — from drafting pleadings to conducting advocacy and working with Counsel. Play a hands-on role in mentoring junior lawyers and supporting their development. Contribute to the team’s growth through networking and business development. Be trusted to deliver the highest standard of service to a diverse and loyal client base. What will help you succeed in this role?
Essential Qualified as a solicitor in Northern Ireland and/or the Republic of Ireland. Experience advising employer clients on complex employment matters. Tribunal and/or WRC experience, with the confidence to manage cases from beginning to end. Experience with TUPE and employment issues arising from M&A activity. Previous experience of managing your own caseload and client relationships.
A collaborative approach, with an interest in supporting junior colleagues and contributing to the wider team. What we offer? We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF. We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team. About us DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services.
We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.
Responsibilities
Manage your own caseload, handling everything from day-to-day advisory work to employment litigation. Provide pragmatic, business-focused advice on issues including TUPE, reorganisations, contracts, policies, and senior exits. Work closely with our corporate and commercial teams on high-value transactions. Take ownership of employment claims — from drafting pleadings to conducting advocacy and working with Counsel. Play a hands-on role in mentoring junior lawyers and supporting their development. Contribute to the team’s growth through networking and business development. Be trusted to deliver the highest standard of service to a diverse and loyal client base.
Qualifications
Essential Qualified as a solicitor in Northern Ireland and/or the Republic of Ireland. Experience advising employer clients on complex employment matters. Tribunal and/or WRC experience, with the confidence to manage cases from beginning to end. Experience with TUPE and employment issues arising from M&A activity. Previous experience of managing your own caseload and client relationships. A collaborative approach, with an interest in supporting junior colleagues and contributing to the wider team.
