Administrative Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Dispute Tribunal (UNDT) is a judicial body established to provide a forum for the resolution of disputes between the United Nations and its staff members. The UNDT aims to ensure that staff members have access to justice and that their rights are protected in accordance with the UN's legal framework. The UNDT operates under the Office of Administration of Justice and is committed to upholding the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability in its proceedings. The Tribunal conducts hearings, issues orders, and renders binding judgments on cases filed by current and former staff members. The UNDT is located in various regions, including Nairobi, and is part of the broader United Nations system, which operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on promoting peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and human rights.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Assistant position within the UNDT's Registry in Nairobi is crucial for supporting the administrative functions of the Tribunal. The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks that ensure the smooth operation of the Registry. This includes handling inquiries, drafting correspondence, maintaining case files, and providing technical assistance for meetings. The role requires a proactive approach to managing administrative duties and supporting legal processes. The Administrative Assistant will work closely with the Principal Registrar and Legal Officers, contributing to the Tribunal's mission of delivering justice to UN staff members. The position demands a high level of professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in facilitating the Tribunal's operations and ensuring that all administrative processes are executed efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Administrative Assistant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: handling complex verbal and written inquiries from internal and external parties; drafting responses to routine correspondence and legal documents; editing and checking the accuracy of specialized documentation; creating and maintaining files and databases for case management; providing technical assistance for meeting arrangements; conducting basic research on assigned legal issues; maintaining internal databases for tracking cases; generating statistical reports; processing mail and documents; following up on deadlines and actions; assisting in the maintenance of reference files; performing various administrative duties such as processing travel requests; providing guidance and training to junior staff; assisting in data collection and analysis; and performing other duties as assigned by supervisors. The role requires a proactive and organized individual who can manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Supplemental training in paralegal studies, administration, or a related field is desirable. A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in paralegal work, conference servicing, or general office support is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree may have the minimum experience requirement reduced by two years. Experience as a law clerk or court assistant in international organizations or large law firms is preferred. Additionally, experience in data analytics or related areas is considered an asset. The position requires a strong understanding of legal processes and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with additional training in paralegal studies, administration, or a related field will be viewed favorably. This educational background is essential for understanding the legal framework and administrative processes relevant to the UNDT's operations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in paralegal work, conference servicing, or general office support. Candidates with a first-level university degree may have this requirement reduced to five years. Experience in a legal environment, particularly within international organizations or large law firms, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related field to support the Tribunal's data management needs.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is desirable, as well as proficiency in other UN languages such as Spanish, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), or Arabic, which are considered an asset for this role. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance the candidate's ability to interact with diverse stakeholders within the UN system.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2026, without the possibility of extension. It is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Kenya. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for international allowances or benefits. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process will adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly based on their qualifications and organizational needs. The UN Secretariat is a non-smoking environment, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.