Paralegal

Job Posting Organization:
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is a unique global partnership of five institutions. The World Bank Group was established with a bold vision to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. It serves as one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, helping to solve the world’s greatest development challenges. The organization has 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide, working with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to bring about transformative changes globally. ICSID specifically focuses on international investment dispute settlement, aiming to foster increased flows of international investment by providing an impartial and effective forum for resolving disputes between host governments and foreign investors. More information about ICSID can be found at www.worldbank.org/icsid.

Job Overview:
The position of Paralegal at ICSID involves supporting legal teams in various capacities. The role requires fluency in English, with a preference for candidates who are also fluent in Spanish or French, the other two official languages of ICSID. The paralegal will be responsible for drafting, formatting, proofreading, and finalizing case-related correspondence, ensuring that all necessary documents are correctly attached. They will prepare drafts of legal documents for review by the Team Leader and legal counsel, and manage the filing of submissions in ICSID’s document management system according to established standards. The paralegal will also coordinate the submission process for parties, track case procedural details, maintain calendars of events, and conduct research on assigned issues. Additionally, they will prepare budget estimates for cases, assist with financial monitoring, and help with logistical arrangements for hearings. The role requires a proactive approach to support the legal team and ensure the smooth operation of case management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Paralegal include: drafting, formatting, proofreading, and finalizing case-related correspondence in English, and preferably in Spanish and/or French; preparing drafts of documents for review by the Team Leader and legal counsel; filing submissions and other case-related documents in ICSID’s document management system; coordinating and overseeing parties’ submissions; acknowledging receipt of submissions and reviewing for completeness; tracking and maintaining case procedural details in ICSID’s case tracking systems; creating and maintaining calendars of events for each case; coordinating the publication of case materials; conducting research on assigned issues; preparing budget estimates for cases; preparing letters to parties requesting advances on costs; coordinating with the Administration and Finance Team on case escrow accounts; assisting with presentations and materials for conferences; providing formatting, proofreading, editing, and cite-checking assistance; preparing translations of case correspondence; coordinating the translation of awards and decisions; assisting with logistical arrangements for hearings; and sharing miscellaneous responsibilities with Legal Assistants as assigned by senior officials.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Paralegal position include a Bachelor’s degree, a Paralegal certificate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates should have a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant paralegal experience. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are essential, with a preference for proficiency in Spanish and/or French. Knowledge of arbitration procedures is desirable, along with sound organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and deliver assignments promptly. Candidates should possess knowledge of legal processes, procedures, and terminology, as well as the ability to research, analyze, and synthesize legal information. Legal document drafting skills and experience in preparing budget proposals are also required. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team are crucial, as is proficiency in computer skills, particularly in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and familiarity with videoconferencing platforms.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Paralegal position should possess a Bachelor’s degree or a Paralegal certificate. An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered acceptable. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to legal studies, paralegal studies, or a related field that provides a solid foundation in legal principles and practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant paralegal experience. This experience should ideally include exposure to legal document preparation, case management, and familiarity with arbitration procedures. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to handle multiple assignments and work under pressure, showcasing their capacity to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Spanish or French is preferred, as these languages are also official languages of ICSID. The ability to draft correspondence and edit materials in both English and the preferred languages is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external parties.

Additional Notes:
The position is a local recruitment opportunity, meaning preference will be given to applicants authorized to work in the duty station for any employer. The term duration for this position is 3 years. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that there is no discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.