Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has its headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, and operates through various divisions, regional offices, and a network of collaborating centers. UNEP's mission is to provide leadership and encourage partnerships in caring for the environment, inspiring nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. The organization works on various initiatives, including the Montevideo Programme V, which aims to strengthen law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law and governance globally, and is a flagship initiative of UNEP's Law Division, which focuses on environmental law and governance issues.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position is located within UNEP's Law Division, specifically in the Environmental Governance section. The incumbent will be responsible for providing technical assistance and capacity building in the area of environmental law governance, particularly under the Montevideo Programme. This role involves developing project proposals, resource mobilization, and preparing agreements with various stakeholders, including governments and NGOs. The Legal Officer will also handle advisory services related to environmental law, prepare legal opinions, and conduct extensive legal research and analysis. The position requires collaboration with other UNEP divisions and external partners to advance environmental governance and sustainable development initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will administer legal technical assistance and capacity building initiatives, prepare agreements and contracts, handle issues related to environmental law and governance, and prepare background papers and legal opinions. The incumbent will conduct legal research, analyze legal documents, and provide guidance to junior staff. Responsibilities also include preparing seminars and symposia, servicing intergovernmental meetings, and providing legal advice on administrative matters. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of environmental law, governance, and the ability to draft governance papers and work under pressure while ensuring gender perspectives are incorporated into all areas of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of legal principles and procedures in environmental law and governance. They should have the ability to conduct legal research, analyze information, and interpret legislative instruments. The role requires excellent drafting skills, the ability to work under pressure, and good legal judgment. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently. A commitment to gender equality and the ability to analyze data for decision-making are also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international environmental law or a related field with coursework in environmental law is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in environmental law or governance, including legal analysis, research, and negotiation in an international setting. At least three years of experience in project or program management related to environmental governance or sustainable development is required. Experience in technical assistance and capacity building in environmental law is essential, along with familiarity with procedural matters of intergovernmental bodies. Experience in sustainability and circularity of value chains is desirable, as is experience within the United Nations system or similar organizations.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French or Spanish is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, tailoring their language and style to suit the audience.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as a fixed-term appointment limited to the entity. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.