Paralegal

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, addressing the world's most pressing development challenges through collaboration with public and private sector partners, investment in innovative projects, and leveraging data, research, and technology to effect transformative changes globally. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), a member of the World Bank Group, is seeking two paralegals to join its legal teams. The role involves providing essential support in the resolution of international investment disputes, which is critical for fostering increased flows of international investment. The paralegals will be responsible for drafting, formatting, proofreading, and finalizing case-related correspondence in English and either French or Spanish, depending on the position. They will also prepare draft documents for review, manage submissions in ICSID’s document management system, and maintain case procedural details. The paralegals will conduct research, prepare budget estimates, and assist with logistical arrangements for hearings, ensuring that all documentation is accurate and timely. This position requires a proactive approach to managing multiple tasks and deadlines, as well as strong communication skills to interact effectively with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The paralegals will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities that include: drafting, formatting, proofreading, and finalizing case-related correspondence in English and in either French or Spanish; preparing draft documents for review by legal counsel; filing submissions and other documents in ICSID’s document management system; coordinating and overseeing parties’ submissions; acknowledging receipt of submissions and reviewing them for completeness; tracking and maintaining case procedural details; creating and maintaining calendars of events for each case; conducting research on assigned issues; preparing budget estimates for cases; coordinating with the Secretariat’s Administration and Finance Team; assisting with presentations and materials for conferences; providing formatting and proofreading assistance for awards and decisions; preparing translations of case correspondence; coordinating logistical arrangements for hearings; and sharing miscellaneous responsibilities with Legal Assistants.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree, a Paralegal certificate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. They should have a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant paralegal or legal experience. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and in either French or Spanish are essential, along with the ability to draft correspondence and edit materials in these languages. Knowledge of arbitration procedures is desirable, as well as sound organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Candidates should have a strong understanding of legal processes and terminology, and the ability to research and synthesize legal information clearly. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is required, along with advanced knowledge of videoconferencing platforms.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree or a Paralegal certificate. Candidates with an equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. A strong academic foundation in legal studies or a related field is preferred, as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant paralegal or legal 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 tasks and work under pressure, showcasing their capability to manage deadlines effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in either French or Spanish, depending on the specific position. The ability to draft and edit legal documents in these languages is crucial. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity, meaning preference will be given to applicants authorized to work in the duty station. The term duration for this position is three years, and it is a full-time role. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.