Associate Legal Officer (temporary)
Organizational Context
This position is within the Office of the Director-General/Executive Director of the United Nations Office at Vienna/United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNOV/UNODC) in Vienna, Austria. The role reports to the Senior Legal Advisor and the Chief of Office, supporting senior management and various UN entities based in Vienna.
Job Purpose
The Associate Legal Officer will provide crucial legal advice and support to UNOV/UNODC Senior Management and offices, as well as other UN Secretariat entities in Vienna. This involves conducting legal research, preparing legal opinions on international law matters, and drafting/reviewing legal instruments such as MOUs, agreements, and contracts. The role also entails advising on institutional and procedural matters, assessing legal risks, and representing the Legal Office in meetings. Additionally, the incumbent will contribute to data analysis for planning and reporting, ensuring efficient operation and risk mitigation within the organization.
Responsibilities
Conduct legal research and prepare legal opinions on public and private international law, including UN Charter, resolutions, legal framework, privileges, immunities, and host country legislation. Draft, review, and revise legal instruments such as MOUs, agreements with Member States and other entities, host country and conference agreements, commercial contracts, and administrative issuances. Provide legal advice on institutional and procedural matters related to intergovernmental bodies, including interpreting rules of procedure and decisions. Research and advise on claims, disputes, and legal proceedings involving UNOV or UNODC. Identify and assess legal risks, recommending measures to minimize liability. Represent the Legal Office in meetings with external stakeholders and prepare follow-up documentation. Contribute to data collection, analysis, and reporting using data visualization methods. Track and report on the activities of the ODG/OED Legal office.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in international law, including legal analysis, research, and writing, is required. Experience in an international organization's legal office or a governmental institution dealing with international law is desirable. Experience with privileges and immunities, drafting/negotiating agreements, host country agreements, procedural advice, and drug control treaties is also desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Accountability, Client Orientation, legal research and writing, legal analysis, data analysis, communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, ability to work under pressure, good legal judgment, knowledge of UN mandates and legal framework.