Trainee Layer/Lawyer, Project Finance

We are currently recruiting a talented lawyer or an experienced trainee lawyer to join our Projects team in Milan. You will be supporting senior lawyers and partners of the team which deals with a variety of projects, infrastructure and PPP transactions.

The team represents public authorities, sponsors and equity investors in the procurement and development of project financed transactions both in Italy and, especially, abroad.

The practice also includes the drafting and negotiation of tender documents for foreign public authorities, the drafting and negotiation of any contractual documentation for sponsors, EPC Contractors, O&M Contractors and equity investors during all phases of project financed transactions, JV agreements, Shareholders Agreement: from the procurement and tender phase to the award, structuring, financing and development of the relevant projects, including also the project component of M&A deals in the infrastructure sector.

The area of activity of the group encompasses a number of sectors including infrastructure (motorways, light rails&metro, airports, hospitals, schools) and, in a smaller portion, renewable energy (waste to energy, biogas, biomass, battery storage, etc.).

DLA Piper understands that you're building a future, which is why we encourage you to reach your full potential. To explore the opportunities and choices that shape your individual career journey. Here, personal growth goes hand in hand with professional development.

Main duties and reaponsibilities

• Legal research and due diligence.
• Assistance in drafting legal opinions.
• Assistance in contract drafting.
• Analysis of contractual agreements and other legal documents.
• Full engagement and involvement in client matters.

About you

• Italian qualified lawyer with great academic results.
• We do not set up upper or lower limits of PQE for our vacancies, however we think that candidates having between 1- and 3-years' experience are likely to have the right level of expertise to undertake the role.
• We are also interested in evaluating a brilliant and experienced trainee lawyer who will preferably expect to sit for the first session of Italian Bar Exam in 2026.
• Solid background in Project and/or Project Finance matters gained preferably in a boutique or in a multipractice law firm.
• Thesis or academic path in projects is a plus, as well as previous experience in the sector.
• Excellent English and Italian language skills.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Personal commitment and learning attitude.
• Energetic and entrepreneurial mind-set.
• Motivated and team player.

About us

We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.

Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.