LEGAL OFFICER

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting sustainable development within the UN system. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UNEP's Law Division spearheads environmental law and governance initiatives, including technical assistance, capacity building, and advisory services. This role is situated within the Environmental Governance section of the Law Division.

Job Purpose

This Legal Officer position within UNEP's Law Division in Nairobi supports the implementation of environmental law and governance programs, notably the Montevideo Programme V. The role involves administering legal technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives, particularly concerning sustainability and circularity. It contributes to advancing environmental rule of law, strengthening national capacities, and supporting the environmental dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The incumbent will provide legal advice, conduct research, prepare legal documents, and assist in servicing intergovernmental meetings, thereby supporting UNEP's strategic objectives and mandate in environmental governance.

Responsibilities

Administer legal technical assistance and capacity-building programs, focusing on environmental law and governance, sustainability, and circularity, including proposal development and resource mobilization. Prepare agreements and contracts with governments and other entities. Provide advisory services on environmental law, international public law, MEAs, and related policy issues, including circularity across value chains. Draft legal opinions, studies, reports, legislative texts, and teaching materials. Assist in servicing intergovernmental meetings, negotiations, and expert groups, preparing background materials and reports. Conduct legal research and analysis, reviewing legal documents and identifying key issues. Analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making. Provide guidance to junior staff and perform other assigned duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in environmental law or governance, including legal analysis, research, and writing in an international setting. Three years of experience in project/program management related to environmental governance or sustainable development. Experience in environmental law technical assistance and capacity building is required. Experience with intergovernmental bodies' procedural/institutional matters is also required. Experience in sustainability and circularity of value chains is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism in environmental law and governance; legal research and analysis; interpretation and application of legislative instruments; drafting legal documents; communication (written and verbal); planning and organizing; data analysis and interpretation; knowledge of civil/common law systems; understanding of MEAs and treaty law; ability to work under pressure and apply legal judgment.

Explore related opportunities