Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It serves as the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants alike. The organization is committed to creating a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a mission to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified for all individuals involved. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce, actively encouraging applications from qualified female candidates and individuals from non-represented member countries.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position is situated within the Office of Legal Affairs at IOM, which provides legal advice to the Director General, Deputy Directors General, regional offices, country offices, and other departments. The Legal Officer will play a crucial role in ensuring that the activities and operations of the Organization comply with the legal framework governing IOM, including its Constitution, governing body decisions, and law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law. The role involves providing legal advice, recommendations, and services related to human resources legal issues, reviewing investigation reports, and assisting in disciplinary and administrative processes. The Legal Officer will also conduct research on jurisprudence, develop guidance and policies on personnel matters, and support the implementation of the Unified Staff Rules across IOM country offices. This position requires a proactive approach to addressing legal challenges and providing sound legal counsel to senior management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: providing legal advice and recommendations on the legal status, constitution, functions, rules, and activities of IOM; reviewing investigation reports and allegations of misconduct; advising senior management on disciplinary processes; preparing legal submissions for internal justice processes; conducting legal research on ILOAT jurisprudence; developing policies and guidance on personnel matters; assisting with the implementation of the Unified Staff Rules; advising on privileges and immunities related to employment disputes; reviewing contracts and agreements; and preparing responses to inquiries regarding IOM's regulations and rules. The Legal Officer will also perform any other duties as assigned by the Head of the General & Administrative Law Division.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Law from an accredited institution, along with two years of relevant professional experience, or a University degree in Law combined with four years of relevant experience. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in international administrative law, with experience in legal offices of international organizations being a significant advantage. Candidates should also have experience advising on disciplinary matters, reviewing investigation reports, and handling employment-related disputes. Proficiency in legal research, analysis of legal instruments, and drafting legal documents is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for the Legal Officer position include a Master’s degree in Law from an accredited academic institution or a University degree in Law with additional relevant professional experience. Accredited institutions are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have received quality legal education that meets international standards.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of professional experience in practicing law is required for candidates with a Master’s degree, while those with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least four years of relevant experience. Candidates should have experience in international administrative law, with additional experience in legal offices of international organizations, advising on disciplinary matters, and handling employment-related disputes being advantageous. The role demands a strong understanding of legal research, analysis, and the ability to draft legal documents effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required for this position, both in oral and written communication. A working knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. Proficiency in the required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the linguistic demands of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. It is classified at the P-2 grade level, indicating a professional recruiting type. Candidates must be willing to be mobile and may be required to fulfill certain residency or visa requirements. The selection process may also involve medical fitness certification and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. Vaccination against COVID-19 is required for individuals hired on or after November 15, 2021, subject to certain exemptions. The closing date for applications is set for 23:59 local time in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 22, 2025, and late applications will not be accepted. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its e-Recruitment system.