UN Legal Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the International Trade Law Division (ITLD) of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) at the United Nations. ITLD serves as the substantive secretariat to the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). The organization is dedicated to promoting the progressive harmonization and unification of international trade law. The UN has a global presence, operating in multiple countries and employing a diverse workforce committed to international cooperation and development.

Job Overview:
The Legal Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the coordination, planning, and preparation of ITLD’s non-legislative activities. This includes conducting basic research on international trade law, managing databases, drafting and editing legal documents, and assisting in the organization of seminars and meetings. The position requires a proactive approach to handling inquiries and developing internal procedures. The Legal Assistant will also be responsible for updating the UNCITRAL website and providing guidance to less experienced staff, ensuring that all activities align with the organization's goals and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks including: supporting the coordination and planning of ITLD’s activities; conducting research on international trade law; managing databases and presenting data; drafting and editing legal documents; organizing seminars and meetings; assisting in project proposals and budget documentation; handling inquiries from internal and external parties; developing internal procedures; updating the UNCITRAL website; providing orientation to new staff; and preparing data presentations and reports. The role may also involve additional duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of seven years of relevant work experience in paralegal work, program support, or administration is required. For those with a first-level university degree or higher, the experience requirement is reduced to five years. Experience in drafting and editing official documents, managing databases, and organizing meetings is essential. Familiarity with international trade law and experience in managing website content are desirable but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will have a reduced experience requirement, indicating that higher education is valued in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant work experience in areas such as paralegal work, program support, or administration. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with five years of experience. Experience in drafting legal documents, managing databases, and organizing events is essential, while experience in international trade law is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, but there are no specific desirable languages for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded from regular budgetary resources and is subject to funding availability. The initial appointment will be for a period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in Austria. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to different functions as per organizational needs. The United Nations emphasizes diversity and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.