LEGAL OFFICER (Temporary Job Opening)

Organizational Context

This position is within the Office of Legal Counsel, part of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) at the UN Secretariat. The Legal Officer will report to a Senior Legal Officer, contributing expertise in public international law and the UN's legal framework.

Job Purpose

The Legal Officer will serve as an expert in public international law, handling complex legal matters related to the UN Charter and organizational law. This includes providing legal advice, conducting research, drafting opinions and agreements, and developing new legal modalities. The role involves participation in committees, representing the UN, and potentially mentoring junior officers. The purpose is to ensure the organization operates within its legal framework and to support its diverse legal needs through expert analysis and advice.

Responsibilities

The Legal Officer is responsible for independently managing a wide range of complex public international law matters, including interpreting and applying the UN Charter and organizational law. Key duties involve providing legal advice on substantive and procedural issues, conducting extensive legal research and analysis, and preparing legal opinions, studies, and reports. The role includes reviewing, advising on, drafting, and negotiating complex agreements and legal documents, and developing innovative legal solutions. Additionally, the officer will serve on various committees and working groups, represent the UN, and may coordinate or supervise the work of junior legal officers.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive professional experience in public international law, including legal analysis, research, and writing, is required. At least two years must be with the legal office of a government or international organization. Experience with international agreements, privileges and immunities, and UN procedural law is desirable.

Skills

Expertise in public international law, UN Charter interpretation, legal research and analysis, legal writing, drafting agreements, negotiation, problem-solving, and project management. Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills are essential.

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