Legal Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Legal Affairs and External Relations Bureau (LEB) is a part of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is dedicated to strengthening the international legal framework for civil aviation. The organization focuses on addressing current and emerging challenges in civil aviation through various legal instruments, including the Chicago Convention. LEB provides legal advice and assistance to ICAO Member States and supports the development of international air law instruments. The bureau also manages communications and external relations, ensuring harmonious interactions with Member States and other external parties. ICAO was established in 1944 and operates globally, with a mission to promote safe and orderly development of international civil aviation. It has a significant workforce and operates in multiple countries worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Legal Consultant position within the Legal Affairs and External Relations Bureau (LEB) involves providing comprehensive legal support related to international air law. The consultant will assist in various projects aimed at promoting the ratification and implementation of international air law instruments, as well as developing new legal frameworks to address emerging challenges in civil aviation. The role requires close collaboration with the Legal Committee and other working groups, where the consultant will conduct legal research, draft reports, and prepare documents for discussions. The consultant will also provide legal advice to ICAO Member States and other bodies within the organization, ensuring compliance with international law and ICAO regulations. This position demands a proactive approach to legal issues and the ability to navigate complex legal frameworks effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Legal Consultant include:

• Providing Secretariat support to the ICAO Legal Committee, including assisting in research and drafting documents related to legal issues concerning pilotless aircraft and the application of Article 15 of the Chicago Convention.
• Supporting interactions with external parties by advising on ICAO policies, reviewing agreements, and providing legal support during negotiations.
• Conducting legal research on various issues, collecting data, and preparing legal briefs to inform decision-making processes.
• Assisting in providing legal advice and opinions to ICAO bodies and Member States, including drafting legal memoranda and facilitating negotiations.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of LEB, which may include administrative tasks and additional legal research.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced level university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Law, with a focus on international law or air law. A minimum of three years of professional experience in aviation law and international law is essential, with at least two years in a governmental or international organization setting. Candidates should demonstrate experience in legal analysis, drafting legal documents, and conducting comprehensive legal research. Familiarity with the aviation industry and international affairs is also required, along with knowledge of diplomatic privileges and immunities. Desirable qualifications include familiarity with ICAO's objectives and procedures.

Educational Background:
An advanced level university degree (Master’s degree or academic equivalent) in Law, particularly in international law, air law, or a related field, is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of international aviation law and the legal frameworks that govern civil aviation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of experience in the practice of aviation law and international law. This experience should include at least two years working within a national government, international organization, or civil aviation regulatory body. Candidates should have a proven track record in analyzing and drafting legal opinions and instruments, as well as conducting legal research using various sources. Experience in negotiations with government and multinational organizations is also essential.

Languages:
Fluent reading, writing, and speaking abilities in English are mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of other languages used by the Organization, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The selected legal consultant will be expected to work full-time for a 12-month period, with a maximum of 250 days of work during that time. The daily rate for this position varies from CA$ 248 to CA$ 392, depending on the consultant's qualifications and experience. It is important to note that ICAO does not charge any fees during the selection process, and candidates should be wary of fraudulent requests for money or personal information.