Legal Counsel (Employee & Industrial Relations)
About Us
Join us at Cleanaway and contribute to making a sustainable future possible together. We transform waste into resources and renewable energy. When you start to think of waste as a resource, it opens a world of possibilities. As a high-growth, ASX-listed organisation with over 7500 employees, our goal is to be recognised by our customers as the most innovative and sustainable waste management company with industry-leading HSE performance. We are Australia’s largest company in this sector, providing essential services to millions of customers and communities nationally.
The Opportunity
In this role, you will be a trusted advisor on employment law, industrial relations, and compliance matters. You will partner with leaders across the organisation to interpret legislation and industrial instruments, mitigate risk, and find commercially viable, compliant solutions to complex workforce challenges. Responsibilities will include:
Compliance & Legislation
- Support the internal implementation of new employment and industrial relations legislation.
- Ensure legally compliant enterprise practices.
- Proactively identify, advise on and manage compliance risks.
Advisory & Risk Management
- Provide clear, strategic advice on employment and industrial relations matters, including litigation, industrial instrument interpretation, disciplinary matters and disputes.
- Advice and representation in employment/IR litigation.
- Support the resolution of disputes, balancing operational, commercial, and reputational risks while seeking win–win outcomes.
- Quantify legal risks in matters across the organisation’s industrial landscape.
- Mitigate the risk of underpayments and ensure payroll compliance with legislation and industrial instruments.
About You
We are looking for a solutions-focused lawyer with deep expertise in employment and industrial relations. You thrive on translating complex legal frameworks into practical, commercially sound advice and you’re ready to partner with a business that values both compliance and innovation. Your experience will include:
- A minimum of 5 years post-admission experience as a qualified lawyer (in-house and/or private practice).
- Strong knowledge of employment and industrial relations law, including operation of awards and enterprise agreements.
- Demonstrable understanding of legal principles and judicial procedures.
- Proven experience in commercial negotiations and providing strategic legal advice.
- Commercial mindset with experience in change management.
- Experience with payroll systems and compliance, preferably including Kronos.
- Exceptional communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams.
What we offer
- Attractive Salary Package
- Flexibility
- No billable hours
- Career development
- Great company benefits: Annual employee share plan offer, novated leasing through SG Fleet or Smart Group, optional flu vaccinations, EAP access, discounts on private health insurance, company discounts + much more!
Our Process
Our recruitment process involves a number of checks including reference checks, verification of qualifications, licences and right-to-work status. We are dedicated to improving employment outcomes and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We also welcome candidates of all ages, abilities, gender identities, experiences (including veterans), and cultural backgrounds.
If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact us by emailing inclusion@cleanaway.com.au. Join us on our exciting journey towards a sustainable future. Simply click the Apply button below or visit https://www.cleanaway.com.au/about-us/careers and let's make a positive impact together.
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Applications close: AUS Eastern Standard Time
- Vacancy no:
- 522255
- Work type:
- Permanent - Full Time
- Location:
- Kent Street NSW Australia
- Categories:
- Legal, Audit & Risk
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