Human Resources and Legal Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LAC Office) is located in Panama City, Panama, and works closely with the 33 countries of the region. The office's activities are integrated into the Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Job Overview:
The Human Resources and Legal Advisor will provide essential support in HR, legal, and administrative functions to ensure smooth operations within the UNEP organization. This position is based in the UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office in Panama City, Panama, and is a full-time role requiring 40 hours of work per week. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Administrative Officer (Finance and Human Resources) and will maintain direct communication with the administrative team to enhance operational efficiency across the Latin America and the Caribbean region. The role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including comprehensive support throughout the recruitment process for various contract modalities, administration of outsourced personnel contracts, and ensuring compliance with UN policies and procedures. Additionally, the advisor will contribute to the review of existing HR workflows and procedures, aiming to improve customer service and align HR strategies with UNEP's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Resources and Legal Advisor will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: providing comprehensive support throughout the full recruitment process for diverse contract modalities such as consultancies, individual contracts, internships, and staff contracts; ensuring compliance with UN policies and procedures; administering outsourced personnel contracts and fund commitments with other UN agencies; maintaining HR-related databases and preparing periodic reports; contributing to the review of HR workflows; supporting the review and approval of legal instruments such as Memorandum of Understanding and Contribution Agreements; understanding UNEP's privileges and immunities; drafting and proofreading legal correspondence; compiling and organizing legal information for reports and meetings; and collaborating with administrative and legal processes of UNEP ROLAC and the Administrative Hub.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a High School Diploma as a minimum educational qualification, while a Bachelor’s degree in law, human resources management, business, public administration, or a related field is highly desirable. Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible experience in law, human resources management, administration, or a related area. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, client orientation, and teamwork capabilities.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a High School Diploma, with a Bachelor’s degree in law, human resources management, business, public administration, or a related field being highly desirable. This educational background is essential to ensure the candidate has the foundational knowledge necessary for the HR and legal functions of the role.

Experience:
A minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible experience in law, human resources management, administration, or a related area is required for this position. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to handle complex HR and legal tasks effectively and efficiently, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and policies.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required for this position. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders, ensuring that all legal and HR processes are managed smoothly and efficiently.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time, requiring 40 hours of work per week, and is based in Panama City, Panama. The expected duration of the contract is 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.