How Do You Get an Employment Lawyer Job in the UK?

If you’re considering a career as an employment lawyer in the UK, you’re entering a fast-paced, people-centric area of law. With ever-changing legislation and workplace rights constantly in the spotlight, this legal field has never been more important—or more rewarding.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about securing an employment lawyer job in the UK. From qualifications and required skills to job responsibilities and salary expectations, we’ll guide you step by step. Whether you’re a law student or a career-changer, this guide offers practical insights to help you succeed.

What Does an Employment Lawyer Do?

Before diving into how to get the job, let’s talk about what the job actually involves.

Employment lawyers deal with issues that arise in the workplace. Their clients can be individuals, companies, or trade unions. The scope of work includes:

• Drafting employment contracts

• Advising on unfair dismissal claims

• Representing clients in tribunals

• Advising on workplace discrimination, redundancy, or whistleblowing

• Conducting negotiations during settlement agreements

Because employment law can change rapidly due to political, social, and economic factors, lawyers in this field must stay sharp and agile. They often work closely with HR departments and senior management, offering real-time advice on workplace strategy and compliance.

What Qualifications Do You Need?

To become an employment lawyer in the UK, the path is structured and clear—but not always easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Undergraduate Degree

You can either:

• Study Law (LLB) at university, or

• Take a non-law degree and then complete a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)

The LLB is the more direct route, but either can lead to success in this field.

2. Legal Practice Course (LPC) or SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)

Previously, aspiring solicitors completed the LPC after their degree. However, the SQE is now becoming the new standard. This qualification route also includes two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), which you can gain through law firms or in-house roles.

3. Training Contract or Equivalent QWE

Most employment lawyers train at a law firm, often with a seat in the employment department. However, you can also gain qualifying experience in-house at a company with a legal department.

4. Solicitor Admission

After completing your qualifications, you’ll apply to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to officially register as a solicitor in England and Wales.

What Skills Do Employers Look For?

Of course, qualifications matter—but so do soft skills. Employment law is highly interpersonal. You’ll often act as the bridge between legal obligations and human realities. So what do recruiters and law firms look for?

Strong Communication

You must explain legal concepts in a clear, practical way. Whether you’re speaking to a client or representing someone at a tribunal, clarity is essential.

Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Because employment issues can be sensitive or emotional, lawyers need a good understanding of people. You’ll work with clients facing job loss, discrimination, or workplace bullying.

Negotiation Skills

Whether you’re settling disputes or drafting fair contracts, being a confident negotiator is key.

Attention to Detail

Employment contracts and legal documents often include specific clauses and compliance obligations. A missed detail could lead to serious consequences.

Commercial Awareness

You must understand how legal decisions impact the business side of things. What might seem like a legal win could cause reputational or financial harm to a company.

What Is the Career Path Like?

Once you qualify as a solicitor with a focus on employment law, your journey can go in several directions.

Junior Solicitor

As a junior, you’ll usually support partners and senior associates. You’ll handle administrative tasks at first but gradually take on client-facing responsibilities.

Associate / Senior Associate

After a few years, you’ll likely progress to associate level. At this point, you’ll manage your own cases, lead client meetings, and possibly supervise junior colleagues.

Partner / Head of Employment

Becoming a partner or heading the employment law department can take 8–12 years, depending on your firm. Leadership roles include managing teams, building client relationships, and shaping firm strategy.

In-House Counsel

Some solicitors switch to working in-house at large companies, focusing solely on internal employment issues. This role often offers better work-life balance but less courtroom exposure.

What Is the Average Salary for Employment Lawyers?

Salaries vary depending on the region, size of firm, and your level of experience.

• Trainee Solicitor: £25,000 – £45,000

• Newly Qualified (NQ) Employment Lawyer: £50,000 – £70,000

• Mid-Level Associate: £70,000 – £90,000

• Senior Associate/Partner: £90,000 – £150,000+

• In-House Employment Counsel: £60,000 – £120,000

London firms generally pay more, but the workload and hours can be intense. Regional firms offer better work-life balance, though the salary may be lower.

How Can You Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired?

Now that you know what’s required, how do you stand out in a competitive field? Here are actionable tips to boost your employability.

Get Relevant Work Experience

Apply for internships or vacation schemes at law firms. If you’re still studying, work as a paralegal in an employment law department. Even volunteering at Citizens Advice or tribunals can demonstrate initiative and interest.

Build a Specialised CV

Tailor your CV and cover letter to employment law. Highlight your understanding of employment issues, any relevant coursework, or specific tribunal cases you’ve followed.

Network Within the Industry

Attend industry events, webinars, and law fairs. Engage with professionals on LinkedIn or join employment law associations like ELA (Employment Lawyers Association).

Stay Updated on Legal Trends

Subscribe to legal newsletters and follow high-profile employment cases. Being able to discuss recent developments in interviews gives you an edge.

Where Can You Find Employment Lawyer Jobs?

Here are the best ways to find your ideal role:

• Recruitment Agencies: Specialist legal recruiters like The Legists connect law firms with qualified candidates quickly.

• Law Firm Websites: Check the careers section of firms that interest you.

• Legal Job Boards: Use platforms like Legal Week Jobs, TotallyLegal, or Indeed (filter by “Employment Law”).

• LinkedIn: Regularly update your profile and use keywords recruiters might search for.

Is Employment Law the Right Field for You?

This field might be perfect if you enjoy dynamic work, interacting with people, and tackling real-world issues. Every day brings new challenges—one day you could be drafting policies for a tech company, and the next, you might represent an employee in a high-profile discrimination case.

However, it’s not without pressure. You’ll deal with emotionally charged situations, tight deadlines, and high expectations. But for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and care deeply about workplace fairness, it’s a rewarding path.

Final Thoughts

Getting an employment lawyer job in the UK takes hard work, strategic planning, and resilience. But with the right qualifications, skills, and mindset, you can build a fulfilling career that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

At The Legists, we understand the legal job market inside and out. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next big move, we’re here to support your journey every step of the way.