Real Estate Construction Associate (Entry-Level)

Real Estate Construction Associate (Entry-Level) - St. Louis Posted on April 27, 2026 Responsibilities and Practice Dentons US LLP is seeking an entry-level associate to join our dynamic, expanding Construction team in the Fall of 2026. The ideal candidate will have excellent academic credentials and a strong interest in real estate and construction law. The associate hired for this position will work shoulder‑to‑shoulder with seasoned partners and counsel, collaborative associates, and industry‑leading clients on high‑impact projects across the United States and internationally, gaining hands‑on experience in transactional work, dispute resolution, and day‑to‑day project counseling. If you are passionate about shaping skylines and solving complex problems with practical, business‑minded lawyering, we want to meet you. As a Construction Associate, you will play a pivotal role in supporting our clients through every phase of the construction process. Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: Client engagement: You will join a team of attorneys who serve as trusted advisors, learn how to deliver practical, business‑oriented solutions from project inception through completion and operation, with regular direct client interaction Team collaboration: Work closely with colleagues across the firm in a collaborative environment to deliver seamless, integrated service on multi‑faceted construction matters, supported by a team invested in your training and development Drafting and negotiating construction agreements: Draft manuscript design, development, and construction agreements, and work with AIA and other industry‑standard forms to prepare, review, and negotiate construction contracts, design‑build agreements, EPC contracts, development agreements, design agreements, and all transactional documents necessary for a construction project Transactional support: Collaborate with internal and client teams on the structuring, coordination, and execution of complex transactions with multiple stakeholders related to real‑estate development and construction projects Due diligence and research: Conduct thorough due diligence and legal research to support project development and risk management Managing construction disputes: Assist in resolving construction‑related disputes, including defect and delay claims, through arbitration and litigation At Dentons, you’ll be part of a cooperative, forward‑thinking team that values innovation, continuous training, and practical problem‑solving. Our Construction team is fully integrated with our global Real Estate group, giving you access to a wealth of resources and expertise while maintaining strong local connections. We empower associates to take ownership early, develop market‑leading skills, and make a tangible impact on the built environment. Join us at Dentons and help build the future—one project at a time. Dentons US LLP offers a competitive salary and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), short‑term/long‑term disability, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, paid holidays, and discretionary bonuses. Position Requirements Personal skills/attributes Excellent interpersonal skills and a client‑focused approach Collaborative spirit, enthusiasm for working as part of a high‑performing team, and openness to learn and improve your skills Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise and persuasive work product Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a keen understanding of construction and real‑estate concepts Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines Technical skills Strong interest in real estate and construction law is required Previous experience in real estate and/or construction law is strongly preferred Previous law firm experience is preferred Other requirements Must sit for the Missouri Bar Examination in July 2026 and obtain admission to the Missouri Bar Submission of a cover letter, resume, law school transcript Equal opportunities Dentons US LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Disability/Vet. Pursuant to local ordinances, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. #J-18808-Ljbffr