LEGAL OFFICER (Temporary Job Opening)

Organizational Context

This position is within the General Legal Division of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) at the UN Secretariat. The Legal Officer will report to a Senior Legal Officer, Principal Legal Officer, and the Director of the General Legal Division, contributing to the legal advisory and support functions of the organization.

Job Purpose

The Legal Officer's purpose is to provide comprehensive legal advice and support to the principal and subsidiary organs of the United Nations. This involves researching and drafting legal opinions, memoranda, and communications on a wide array of issues, including contracts, procurement, administrative law, staff and financial regulations, claims resolution, peacekeeping operations, and organizational accountability. The role requires extensive legal research and analysis, preparation of studies, and review of legal documents to ensure compliance and effective operation of the UN. The officer will also assist in drafting agreements, negotiating disputes, and representing the Organization in various legal proceedings and tribunals.

Responsibilities

The Legal Officer will handle diverse legal issues by researching and drafting legal advice, memoranda, and communications for UN organs. Key duties include advising on contracts, procurement, administrative law, staff and financial regulations, claims resolution, peacekeeping support, and accountability. The role involves conducting extensive legal research and analysis, preparing studies, and reviewing legal documents for accuracy and consistency. The officer will also draft legal opinions on international public and private law, assist in drafting and analyzing complex contracts and agreements, and negotiate disputes. Additionally, the position requires assisting in representing the Organization before arbitral and administrative tribunals, including the UN Appeals Tribunal, and preparing appeals. The role may also involve guiding junior staff and serving on various committees and working groups.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible legal practice experience is required. This experience should be in legal analysis, research, and writing, gained within the legal office of an international intergovernmental organization, a law firm, or a government. Experience in administrative law litigation and practice within an international intergovernmental organization is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, strong legal research and analytical skills, knowledge of civil and common law systems, ability to interpret legislative instruments, excellent drafting and communication skills, ability to work under pressure, good legal judgment, teamwork, and effective communication (written and spoken English).

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